Honiton 'Vera Lynn of the coronavirus crisis' keeping spirits high

A 25-year-old professional singer from Honiton is staying focussed on bringing smiles to people's, despite facing adversity brought on by the pandemic.

As a self-employed vocal artist, Cameron Lemmer suddenly found himself unemployed when all the events he was booked in for cancelled.

instead of feeling sorry for himself, he is continuing to perform - for free - to people from the comfort of their homes.

In this way, Cameron continues to be a popular source of entertainment for residential homes in the Honiton and Sidmouth, where he would often perform gigs before the crisis.

Nub News spoke to Cameron to find out how it all started.

He told us: "It began from a really young age. I performed in all the school plays while I was at both Honiton Primary and the Community College.

"I ended up graduating from University of Gloucester with a performing arts degree.

"I now perform gigs all across Devon; at parties, weddings and residential homes.

"I also sing for The Coastline Band band every Saturday evening at the Victoria Hotel in Sidmouth.

"I would say my style is swing/pop - Frank Sinatra is an idol of mine."

Not only has Cameron's livelihood temporarily evaporated, he also had his own wedding - to fiancé Sophie - planned in May, which had to be postponed until next February.

"We're just hoping that it rains on the day we were meant to have it!" Cameron said cheerily.

"We already had lots of stuff planned, like a Disney-themed cake as we both love Disney, and a Harpist booked to play - Emma Graham, she's amazing - but that's the way it goes."

Cameron appears to have an unsquashable positive attitude which is reflected in his response to the crisis.

"It's been great using the time to learn loads of new material and then performing it in my live online sessions.

"It's nice to able to provide entertainment for people in these times, especially in the residential homes where I'm quite a big hit.

"I guess you could call me the Vera Lynn of the coronavirus crisis, except I'm not a woman!" Cameron added with a chuckle.