“SIMON Cowell eat your heart out!”

That was the message from outgoing Basingstoke and Deane Mayor Councillor Dan Putty after enjoying an entertaining evening at the borough’s premier Chinese restaurant.

He was referring to the performers who entertained diners at the Mayflower Chinese Restaurant’s annual Mayor’s Charity Show.

Cllr Putty was clearly impressed with the local talent, showcased at the May Place restaurant, in Basingstoke’s Top of The Town.

They included the Mayflower’s ambassador Hiro Fam, dubbed the James blunt of north Hampshire.

He was the principle organiser of the event who sang along with Steve Wilson, who is the landlord of The Lamb Inn, Neil Chadwick, Jen Merchant and Hazel Feighery.

Luke Upton certainly wooed the ladies with his charm and good looks too, while Sakura Dahmer excited guests with his fire and light skills.

Cllr Putty was delighted with the £1,124 raised during the evening at the packed restaurant.

The money will go towards his chosen charities, The Blue Bell Sebastian Action Trust and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation.

Addressing guests and the entertainers, Cllr Putty said: “You have all been very generous – thank you from my heart.”

Focusing on the performances he said: “What can I say? You have been really fantastic and I have enjoyed every minute of it.

“We were enthralled and captivated by the performances which were absolutely wonderful and they will stay with us for a long time to come.”

Congratulating the restaurant owners, Alan and Pamela Cheng and their hardworking team for putting on such a successful evening, Cllr Putty said: “The Mayoress and I are delighted to have been at this popular restaurant, with delightful and delicious food, and we are looking at this special event as a highlight of my mayoral year.”