A SINGING group from Aberystwyth will perform live in front of millions of television viewers on Saturday night as they bid to be crowned the winners of a new BBC talent show.

Sgarmes, founded in 2006 by musical director Elinor Powell, narrowly missed out on a place in the final of Pitch Battle despite wowing viewers during their episode of the show, which aired on Saturday, 1 July.

Their Showstopper Edge of Glory, their Riff-Off with The 4 Tune Tellers and Kimmy and their stunning solo round which featured the vocal talents of Kedma Macias saw the group impress the judges and reach the final round.

Sgarmes, however, ultimately lost out in a head-to-head with a cappella group All The King’s Men in the Final Battle.

The result left the group desperately hoping for the one wildcard place in the six-group final along with the five show winners.

At the end of the fifth episode – aired on Saturday, 15 July – Sgarmes found out that they still have a chance of winning the competition, sparking celebrations.

Elinor Powell told the Cambrian News that the group “are so proud and excited” to be in the final.

“We knew we had a one in five chance and are thrilled it went our way,” she said.

“We’ve got a lot of work to do now as this is going to be huge.

“Singing live in the final of BBC One’s prime time Saturday evening slot – it doesn’t get bigger than that.

“Again I must thank everyone for their kindness and support and will need them more than ever now as the final is a public vote.”

The performances in the live final will feature special guests, with Sgarmes taking to the stage with Jermaine Jackson.

The live grand final of Pitch Battle will be shown on BBC One on Saturday, 22 July, at 7.25pm, with the winners receiving a £50,000 prize.

The final will be decided by a public vote. To vote for Sgarmes at the grand final, you must be registered on the Pitch Battle website at www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b08w8gmh.

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