Little Mix's Jade honoured by hometown theatre where she performed as a little girl

Chair of The Customs House Trust, Margaret Fay, and Jade Thirlwall Credit: Craig Leng Photography

Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall has been honoured by her hometown theatre.

The singer developed her musical talents at The Customs House in South Shields, appearing on stage several times before finding international stardom through The X Factor.

Jade’s talent was spotted at an early age on the performing arts circuit in South Shields and she was a member of several groups, including South Shields Musical Society, Performers Stage School and John Christopher Theatre Company.

During a visit back home over the Easter Break, the singer was inducted as an Honorary Fellow of The Customs House Academy.

Also at the ceremony, was X Factor winner and Honorary Fellow, Joe McElderry.

Jade and Joe have been friends since they started singing together as teenagers. The event was in aid of The Customs House Trust.

Joe McElderry and Jade Thirlwall Credit: Craig Leng Photography

26-year-old Jade said:

Bob Olley and Jade Thirlwall Credit: Craig Leng Photography

During the ceremony, Jade was also presented with a personalised piece of artwork by South Shields artist and Honorary Fellow of The Customs House Academy, Bob Olley.