[ ClassicalX ] Katherine at Delamere Forest

Opera sensation Katherine Jenkins performs in memory of Connah's Quay aircraftsman Peter McFerran at Delamere Forest

Top Welsh soprano Katherine Jenkins paid an emotional tribute to Connah’s Quay aircraftsman Peter McFerran, by singing his favourite song in his memory in front of an audience of thousands.

Peter, 24, of Connah’s Quay, was killed in 2007 while serving with the RAF in Basra, Iraq.

Peter’s parents, Ann and Bob, were watching Katherine perform at Delamere Forest on Monday when she invited the audience to request songs. The couple responded by asking for Calon Lân, Peter’s favourite hymn.

“Katherine asked the audience for their requests,” said Bob McFerran.

“So we rushed around to borrow a pen and wrote her a note reminding her of when she met Peter in Basra.

“Peter was one of the few RAF servicemen to meet her when she visited Iraq in 2005.

“He was so excited, he couldn’t stop talking about the fact she put her arm around him.

“Calon Lân was one of his favourite songs, it means ‘A Pure Heart’ and we played it at his funeral.

“We couldn’t believe it when she read our note out loud and said she would sing it in his memory.

“The orchestra didn’t have the music so she sang it alone. It was beautiful and we felt very emotional listening to it.

“There were a lot of Welsh people in the audience who joined in, which was nice.

“She’s a very patriotic young woman, she does a lot for the troops,” added Bob.

Katherine visited Iraq after singing with Dame Vera Lynn at the 60th anniversary of VE Day.

She is a trustee of the British Forces Foundation, which encourages performers to travel the world to entertain Servicemen and women on operations.

Source: Flintshire Chronicle