A Hemel Hempstead and Watford-based charity has done what only a few have achieved, after securing Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer in the latest series of Britain’s Got Talent.
Electric Umbrella uses music to “challenge perceptions, break down barriers, and redefine societal norms” in the hopes of creating a “truly inclusive society”. Their base is at the Marlowes Shopping Centre, where they host in-person music sessions.
On Saturday, March 22, viewers of the hit TV show Britain’s Got Talent were in awe as members of the charity, as well as co-founder Tom Billington, took to the stage to perform their original song.
The huge smiles on the performers’ faces only grew wider as head judge Simon Cowell reached over and smashed the Golden Buzzer, sending the group through to the live shows.
Heading to their social media, a spokesperson for the charity said: “We can’t believe it – we got the Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell!
“This moment was more than just a performance – it was a celebration of possibility, inclusion, and the power of music to break barriers. Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s keep the music going!”
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss CBE is a patron of the charity.
He told MyLocalNews: “When I first saw Electric Umbrella perform nearly six years ago… I knew that somehow, I simply had to get involved with this amazing group of people.
“I have attended some of the practice sessions and they have got me playing various instruments and even singing at the black-tie dinner! And presenting them with the coveted Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2022 was recognition of the fantastic impact Electric Umbrella has had on the community of Hertfordshire and beyond.
“Getting a Golden Buzzer from Simon Cowell on Britain’s Got Talent is simply more icing on the huge cake and testimony to the joy and love felt by anyone lucky enough to have seen them perform live or now on TV.”
MP for Watford, Matt Turmaine said: “Like most of Watford it seems, I watched it live, from my front room. I was enthralled. What an uplifting, invigorating and supercharged performance they all gave.
“So much hard work had clearly gone into that and to get a Golden Buzzer, seeing the golden tinsel rain down amid all those ecstatic faces was pure TV gold.”
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “Did you see Electric Umbrella on Britain’s Got Talent? I must admit to feeling quite emotional watching them entertaining the nation on prime-time TV. Electric Umbrella represent the very best of our town – talented, joyful and inclusive.
“We are so fortunate to have groups like them making a real difference in our community.”
Residents and the nation will now be given the chance to vote for Electric Umbrella at the live shows, in the hopes of getting the charity into the Britain’s Got Talent final, which is expected to take place next month.
Photo credit: Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor, Electric Umbrella, Britain’s Got Talent
