He shot to fame in this year’s Britain’s Got Talent when Ant and Dec hit the golden buzzer for him.

And his performances reduced the judges to tears – and simultaneously captured the hearts of the nation.

Now two Dorset agencies have been appointed, on a retained basis, to support Jon Courtenay, this year’s ITV Britain’s Got Talent winner, as he embarks on his London shows and national 2021 tour.

Christchurch-based Ebb & Co Communications will support the singer, songwriter and pianist with PR and social media strategy, planning and content.

Meanwhile, Dawson Ward, in Southbourne, will support with the creative development of Jon’s London shows and national tour content.

Already Jon, who started his career on stage as a comedy magician before adding the piano, has appeared as a headline act on this year’s Royal Variety Performance, pictured.

He appeared on ITV last week alongside Gary Barlow, Celeste and Captain Tom Moore.

Both agencies will be supporting Jon with his upcoming performances and engagements for the rest of this month and through next year including his 2021 UK Tour called ‘What’s it all about?’.

So far there are 27 dates with more being added.

Performances and appearances have included ITV This Morning’s Christmas Pantomime also starring Joanna Lumley, Sheridan Smith and Christopher Biggin.

Held last Friday, it began with an opening number from Jon.

He is also headlining the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal virtual Christmas Concert on December 28.

Rachel Lloyd, formerly Cunard’s Global Director of PR and Social Media, who founded Ebb & Co Communications in July, pictured left, said: “With the live entertainment sector set to make a welcome comeback next year, this is the perfect time for Ebb & Co to provide strategic PR and social media support, in addition to some mid-to-long-term planning.

“This is a great moment in Jon’s career and I’m excited to be playing a part in helping Jon achieve his longer-term ambition of performing live and having a successful national tour next year.”

Jason Ward, formerly Cunard’s Entertainment Programme Manager and latterly Entertainment Development Manager for P&O Cruises, pictured right, also launched his own business in July.

He later joined forces with Natalie Dawson, pictured left, who was heavily involved with the cruise industry as an artistic director, to form Dawson Ward.

Jason said: “We are delighted to be working with Jon on the creative development of his show in preparation for his London dates and national tour.

“During the process of working with Jon we’ve discovered an amazing trove of original songs that are funny and relatable.

“We are now looking forward to bringing all of this material to life for everyone to enjoy.”

Rachel said Jon had worked with both Cunard and P&O Cruises in the past.

However, it was through his manager, Jo Allen of Green Fairy Productions, that both Ebb and Co Communications and Dawson Ward had got to know and start working for him.

Jon, who toured the world for decades with his act, said: “I am delighted to have both Dawson Ward and Ebb & Co Communications on board and supporting me as I take to the stage and begin my 2021 National Tour.

“Natalie Dawson and Jason Ward bring strong knowledge and experience in delivering high quality live entertainment shows and Rachel Lloyd’s results driven approach to PR and social media will be vital as I continue to build on this year’s success.

“Having a great team in place will ensure that we have the best possible show, that people will come and watch, and thoroughly enjoy.”

• www.joncourtenay.com