IT made Aled Jones famous and now schoolboy Cormac Thompson is hoping his singing career will soar to new heights as he performs the magical Walking in the Air at a special festive showing of The Snowman.

The nine-year-old Bolton School pupil has been selected to perform the iconic seasonal song at the Halle screening of the animated film at the Bridgewater Hall, accompanied by a live performance of Howard Blake's score in December.

His achievement is made even more remarkable given he only joined Halle Children's Choir following a successful audition in the summer.

He will sing in two of the four performances, accompanied by the orchestra.

Cormac said: "I’m a bit nervous, but excited. I was surprised and happy when I was asked to sing it."

It was his mum who spotted his singing talent when he was in Year Three and started singing lessons at school.

"My mum saw on a website that they (Halle) were looking for new members and suggested that I go for it.

"I like singing a lot! I’m working towards my Grade 3 with Mrs Ives. My favourite piece at the moment is ‘The Owls’ which is the piece we’re doing for Grade 3."

Cormac is actually the second pupil from the Junior Boys’ School to sing ‘Walking in the Air’ for the Hallé.

Nathan Pierson, also a member of the Halle Choir, was selected to sing it last year.

He said: "I was a bit nervous because there were quite a few people, but when I got into it I like it and I was really happy.

" I think Cormac’s handling it pretty well. He has friends at School and in the choir who are helping him out."

Nathan, who is in Year Six, said: "I dream about being a professional singer sometimes , but it’s quite a long way away!"