Tributes to crooner who drew praise from Simon Cowell

A Fylde coast singer who was given a unique tribute by Simon Cowell has died at the age of 82.

- by Richard Hunt

Dave Betton performing with son Dean

Dave Betton performed professionally not only at clubs across Blackpool and the Fylde coast but at venues all over the world, where his classic crooning style went down a storm with audiences.

And that was clear to see in 2020, when he performed on Britain's Got Talent with his son Dean, despite having retired from singing a decade before.

The pair reached the latter stages of the show after wowing the judging panel and enjoyed a standing ovation from the audience with their heartwarming rendition of classic 'That's Life'.

Amanda Holden told them they "smashed it", while Simon Cowell said of their act: "There are certain days I think what I need is a mug of Hot Chocolate - and you were that mug of Hot Chocolate! You made me feel good, I needed that!"