FORMER Bolton Wanderers playerKevin Davies gave TV's Simon Cowell a run for his money as he judged a talent show at Horwich Parish primary school.

The star striker, who lives in Bolton and now plays for Preston North End, joined the judging panel in front of 150 parents, relatives and friends for this year's Horwich Parish Got Talent competition.

The popular event saw several talented pupils showcase their singing, dancing, acting and musical abilities in front of the panel.

Ten acts took to the stage before Thomas Gillard, a pupil in year six, was crowned winner after wowing the judges and the crowd with his rendition of Fleur de Lis on the piano.

Second place was Joshua Nicholls, a year four pupil, who performed I Wanna Be Like You from the Jungle Book, and third prize went to singing duo Karis Holroyd and Hannah Brindle.

The youngest performer was Timmy Garner from year three who played three songs on the guitar, including a cracking performance of Green Sleeves.

The top three winners were also treated to a slap up meal at Pizza Hut at Middlebrook retail park.

Year one teacher Monique Hasselder said she was proud of all the children who took part in the talent competition and said it was hard to pick a winner.

She said: "It was a wonderful evening. All the kids did brilliantly. We had 10 acts ranging from pianists, trumpet players, cornet players and singers. We also had a group of boys who did a comedy sketch which saw Mr Bean visiting Horwich Parish, which was really funny.

"The winner from last year came back as a guest judge, and she also performed her monologue which she did when she won last year.

"After all the acts had finished, the judges deliberated before the prizes were presented to the winners.

"We are so proud of all the children — they were all excellent.

"Kevin seemed to really enjoy himself too.

"It was great fun."