Eastbourne music enthusiast gets dream to meet stars of The Voice

Daniel Farrant has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a life-shortening and muscle-wasting disease and has been cared for by Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice in Sussex since it first opened in 2003.

But his disease doesn’t stop him from enjoying TV talent shows like The Voice UK, and idolising his favourite music stars.

So when the team at ITV and The Voice UK invited him to the studio to meet two of his idols – Tom Jones and Will.i.am – one of his dreams came true.

Accompanied by his mum, Phillippa, and two members of Chestnut Tree House’s Community Care Team, Dan travelled to London, where he was able to watch four contestants rehearse for the semi-finals, including Michelle John and Into The Ark, who have made it through to this weekend’s final.

Phillippa Farrant said, “Dan watches The Voice UK avidly every week and loves all types of music, so being able to spend time at the studio, watch rehearsals and meet two of the judges has been absolutely magical.

“I felt quite emotional about it all – will.i.am and Sir Tom Jones are massive stars, and they both took time out of their busy schedules to talk to my son. The experience really was a dream come true for Dan, and I just love seeing him happy.

“He didn’t stop smiling the whole time we were there!”

Jackie Baker of Chestnut Tree House said, “We really can’t thank will.i.am, Sir Tom Jones, the team at ITV and The Voice UK enough.

“They were all so welcoming and did everything they could to ensure that Dan enjoyed his time at the studio.

“Of course, the medical care at Chestnut Tree House is of paramount importance, but our goal is to provide the best quality of life for children, young people and their families, however short it may be. We’re so pleased that we were able to help make one of Dan’s dreams come true.”

For more information about Chestnut Tree House visit www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk