Local Star’s Pride for Blackburn’s Lights Switch On

A local YouTube sensation who took the internet by storm capturing the heart of millions with a carpool karaoke video has been given the honour of switching on his hometown’s Christmas Lights.

Eighty-year-old dementia sufferer Ted Mcdermott – known as the Songaminute Man – will be flicking the switch in Blackburn during the festive gathering on Saturday, 26th November alongside Britain’s Got Talent Stars Boogie Storm and actor Jack P Shepherd.

Earlier this year Ted rose to fame when he and his son, Simon became internet sensations after uploading the pair’s video, ‘Quando, Quando, Quando’, which now has 2.1 million views on YouTube.

The Alzheimer’s sufferer has since landed a record deal with London-based Decca Records and this year received a Pride of Britain Award for Special Recognition presented by Sir Cliff Richard and Joan Collins.

His son said:

The opportunity is an incredible climax to an amazing year for Dad and the family. It will be a privilege for him to turn on the Christmas Lights in his hometown.

During the switch on, there will be a collection for the Alzheimer’s Society, a charity that Simon and Ted have raised more than £137,000 for after the video went viral.

Simon added:

It’s also great to help the Alzheimer’s Society who provide so much help and support to other families going through the same things as us.

Organisers of the event, Blackburn Business Improvement District (BID) and Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, are hoping Ted will be well enough to perform on the night to help celebrate his success.

Blackburn’s BIG Christmas Lights Switch On takes place on Saturday, 26th November between 4pm – 6pm outside Blackburn Town Hall.