The Hawkstone Farmers' Choir has become the final act to secure a place in the Britain's Got Talent final, following a surprising Golden Buzzer twist that propelled drone performers Celestial into the live shows. The choir, now managed by farmers Simon Gwilliam and Lizzy Dean, was originally established by former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson, who sought singing agricultural workers for an advertisement promoting his Hawkstone beer range.
Choir's Emotional Journey
Despite judge Simon Cowell hinting earlier in the episode that the choir had been 'tipped to win', the farming singers were visibly stunned when their names were announced. Speaking to hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, the group revealed that they were inspired to sing as a means of supporting fellow farmers grappling with loneliness and mental health challenges.
The announcement came after Ant and Dec revealed a surprise twist: the judges would collectively press the Golden Buzzer to send one act straight to next week's final. This decision left many viewers frustrated, as they took to social media to express their displeasure.
Drone Performance Wows Judges
Following Celestial's performance, which featured drones forming intricate shapes in the sky outside the studio, Alesha Dixon remarked, 'That was one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen on this show.' Simon Cowell, nearly speechless, added, 'That was one of the most beautiful, incredible productions we've had on this show for years. I don't think it gets better than that.'
However, as Simon and Alesha joined Amanda Holden and KSI in sending the 'epic' drone act through to the final, fans were unimpressed by the new twist. Comments on X included: 'Can't Ant and Dec have a Golden Buzzer in the Semi Final?' and 'So if they win and go to the royal variety are they going to say "right folks, everyone outside for the next act of the night"? Answer: They’re not. Literally an act that cannot win for logistical reasons.'
Choir's Audition and Future Plans
During their audition for the ITV show, the Hawkstone Farmers' Choir—comprising members aged 27 to 74—performed a rendition of Elbow's 'One Day Like This'. Their performance impressed judge Amanda Holden, who pressed the Golden Buzzer to send them through to the live shows.
Viewers can expect to see more of the choir on-screen, as they will feature in the upcoming fifth series of Clarkson's Farm. Jeremy, 66, who has fronted the hit Prime Video series since 2021, helped form the choir, which is supported by his Hawkstone Brewery.
A TV insider told The Sun: 'Filming for series five is well and truly under way and the finished show is likely to air next year. Fans will, however, be able to see series four in a matter of weeks, though according to Jeremy it's a rather darker season than we've been used to. But the appearance of the Hawkstone Farmers' Choir in the following outing is going to make it more uplifting. They're going to have to get used to being even more famous though.'
Mental Health Advocacy
Jeremy brought together the 32-member group in 2024, and they also work towards raising awareness and funds for mental health charities within the agricultural community. The choir has released a record, with all profits going to the mental health charity Shout. The record, titled 'The Banned One', was named after a Hawkstone advert that was banned for 'not complying' with broadcasting standards.
Victoria Hornby, chief executive of Shout, said: 'The Hawkstone Farmers’ Choir has given an incredible voice to the mental health challenges faced by so many in the agricultural community. We are immensely grateful to be the charity partner for this project. The funds raised from this vinyl will be vital, enabling us to train more volunteers and be there for anyone in the farming community who is struggling to cope. It will save lives.'
'The Banned One' is now available to purchase on the Hawkstone website for £7.50.
Jeremy Clarkson's Pride
Jeremy previously shared his joy, praising the 'fantastic' choir, which is made up of farmers from around the UK. Speaking to his fans on social media, he explained: 'I watched Britain's Got Talent tonight for the first time because the Hawkstone choir were on. They were just fantastic. These guys are all farmers and they work incredibly hard for really incredibly small rewards and to see them all on that stage with all that love in the room made my heart sing.'
Holding back his emotions, he admitted: 'I actually welled up, and thank you Amanda Holden for pressing that Golden Buzzer. It shows that I think people quite like farmers, and they were very, very good so well done, all of you. I'm a very happy man tonight because the choir is fab. That's it.'
