Singer thanks Falkirk fans for 'unbelievable support' on ITV’s The Voice audition

Craig Eddie, 22, stormed through to the next phase of the ITV show on Saturday night after securing a place on Anne-Marie’s team.

His rendition of Foy Vance’s Make It Rain saw the former St Mungo's High School pupil become the second performer from the Falkirk area to progress past the blind auditions, joining Denny teenager Cameron Ledwidge in Anne-Marie’s group.

A YouTube clip of his audition has already been viewed more than 300,000 times and the affection he’s been shown since his moment in the spotlight has had a profound impact.

He said: “I would like to say a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support from Falkirk.

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“The support and love you have shown me has been unbelievable. As a man who struggles with happiness, I can truly say that I have never been more happy in my entire life.

“The reaction I have received has been incredible, far beyond anything I ever could have imagined.

“I have had thousands upon thousands of wonderful comments and messages. I did not expect this reaction at all.”

The level of Craig’s performance saw Anne-Marie turn her chair almost immediately to secure him, while fellow judge Olly Murs, who had no spaces left, was unable to make a pitch despite loving his vocals.

Having had time to reflect on the moment, he admits it’s still difficult to absorb.

Craig, who attended St Francis Xavier’s Primary School in Falkirk, said: “Performing at my blind audition sent me into an almost dream-like state, it’s such a surreal feeling.

“As I saw Anne Marie’s chair turning I could physically feel the air being sucked from my lungs due to relief.

“If you watch my blind audition back you’ll notice I lost my composure for a little second when I saw Anne-Marie turning, thankfully gaining it back shortly after.”

Ever since he started singing aged 11, Craig’s main aim has been to share his voice far and wide.

He’s now determined to carve out a full-time music career for himself and cites artists like John Mayer, Lewis Capaldi, Harry Styles, Post Malone, Joji and Billie Eilish as inspirational figures.

When asked how far he feels he can go on The Voice, Craig replied: “I think that with hard work, determination and consistency I could at least make it to the semi-finals, although in my opinion the level of talent this year is scarily high, so it’s not going to be easy.

“My aspiration is to have as many ears listening to my music as possible.

“I am also very passionate about becoming a mental health advocate as I aim to break the stigma around the subject matter.”

The next stage of The Voice – the head-to-head battles – starts this Saturday at 8.35pm on ITV.

For further information, and to keep up to date with the programme, visit the website.

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