A SINGER from Leigh has been celebrated far and wide following his performance on the Voice.

Former Bedford High student Ryan Barton is well known for his musical talents after releasing two albums and countless tour dates with rock reggae outfit Jeremiah Ferrari.

Dad-of-two Ryan also fronts an acoustic band called the 'Lighter Jam' and nine-piece soul band 'Liberty Soul', and appeared on ITV's national singing competition the Voice on Saturday, November 25.

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Leigh Journal: Ryan progressed to the next round after his rendition of 'Just the Two of Us'Ryan progressed to the next round after his rendition of 'Just the Two of Us' (Image: The Voice)
With Ryan's blind audition taking place in front of judges Tom Jones, Will.i.am, Olly Murs, and Ann-Marie, the 31-year-old performed a soulful rendition of Grover Washington Jr and Bill Wither's classic 'Just the Two of Us'.

Within just ten seconds of Ryan's performance, singer-songwriter Ann-Marie turned her chair around to recruit him onto her team.

As his performance continued, Ryan received rapturous applause from the studio audience and Olly Murs also turned his chair around for the singer, as his emotional family watched on from the sidelines with presenter Emma Willis.

With two of the judges competing for Ryan to be on their team, he decided to go with Ann-Marie as he believes she will be the "perfect coach" with her smooth tones and technical riffs.

Leigh Journal: Ryan is well known for his band Jeremiah FerrariRyan is well known for his band Jeremiah Ferrari (Image: Ryan Barton)
Speaking about his appearance, Ryan said: "This was the first time I've ever been involved with a production on this scale, and it was an awesome experience!

"Naturally, before I went onstage I felt some nerves, but I knew that as soon as I started singing the nerves would dissipate, and I would just enjoy the moment, which is what happened. 

"When Ann-Marie turned around in the first few seconds, I got this insane adrenaline rush all through my body, I was absolutely buzzing, but I just had to try to contain it and finish the song. 

"When I was performing it felt amazing, the live audience was giving off a really good energy, and I could see my family smiling and dancing at the side of the stage with Emma Willis.

"So I just started to do what I do best and sang my heart out, maybe too much because I didn't even notice Olly Murs and turned until I'd finished the song!

"The support and well wishes I've received after the audition have really blown me away.

"This is one thing I love about the people of Leigh, we always get behind our own, and it's a beautiful thing. I can't thank everyone enough for the support they've given me and hope I do Leigh proud!"

Leigh Journal: Ryan also plays in two other bands and works as a medical clerk at Leigh InfirmaryRyan also plays in two other bands and works as a medical clerk at Leigh Infirmary (Image: Ryan Barton)
Ryan, who also works part-time as a medical clerk at Leigh Infirmary, is hopeful to progress as far as possible with the Voice, and says that Jeremiah Ferrari is still going strong.

After a short break from touring following their second album, the Leigh-four piece will play at Manchester Albert Hall supporting The Dualers on December 9, and onto a sold-out gig at the Snug in Atherton on December 16.

With tens of thousands of views for Ryan's performance on the Voice, you can watch it here.