Talent shines in contest organised by The Voice star Jermaine Jackman and Hackney charity

A London-wide youth talent contest - which was organised by The Voice star Jermaine Jackman among others - took place in Hackney on Sunday.

Around 30 dance, singing and rap acts turned out for the 14th Boroughs United talent contest at the Hackney Empire in Mare Street.

More than 2,200 people have performed at the talent contest since the first show was launched in 2000 including singer Leona Lewis and dance troupe Diversity, who won Britain’s Got Talent in 2009.

The event was first set up by social inclusion project The Crib, which aims to help young people get back into work and education and promote knife awareness.

Manager Janette Collins said: “Our Talent show steers away from auditions giving every young person a chance to enter. This we find builds on self esteem and confidence.

“Many young artists have been inspired to pursue careers in the performing arts, including, household names Leona Lewis, Diversity, Flawless, IMD, Unity, Triology and Twist & Pulse and emerging artists,

“The ethos of the event is to raise awareness of the dangers and consequences of carrying guns and knifes and the impact that it has on our community.”