Britain's Got Talent 2011

As usual I find myself starting a new post with the words, long, time, since, last and post. But I haven't had much to talk about lately. I've been in Spain for most of the year doing very little other than the online grind but I thought I'd blog a few thoughts this week on Brtain's Got Talent (BGT) as we have had some success in the past.

Unlike in previous years where there has been a hot jolly this years show seems to be wide open. Partly due to the fact that the judges simply did not put the best acts through. Had they went with two dancers and put the French lad through as well (instead of one of the two dog acts ffs) I'm sure he would have been a market leader.

Oh and talking about market leaders, what happened to Taylor Fowlis? Stan James had her as their 7/2 favourite throughout the audition period and she didn't even audition. I hope they will refund any moneys wagered on her.

Anyway, I digress. The market leader is a young lad called Ronan Parke. He sings. Fairly well but it appears he's going to sing older easier numbers. I don't know if he or his parents are aware of this yet, but he is quite clearly gay. I'm sure he'll pick up some votes from people that want to mother him, but I am always keen to take singers on in this show. Good singers go on X Factor, the rest go on BGT.

Another factor very important to take into account is who can improve. I liked Razy the Romanian matrix dancer's routine, but having seen him dance twice now (he danced off last night v Michael) I think we will be seeing a lot of the same moves and should he make the finals will probably struggle for that little bit extra. It is also possible by then that the public will be annoyed with his constant tears.

In complete contrast to Razy, there is a group called Two and a Half Men who were bubbly, energetic, quick, funny and very well polished. They were similar in ways to Chris and Wes (recent winners of Sky's Got to Dance) and Twist and Pulse (former BGT runners-up) but with their own style and music types.

Now before steaming in with a bet I would advise a look at the semi final line-ups, which at the time of writing are not available. I'd also wait for Betfair's market to take shape but I am going to risk an initial small amount at the 25/1 available with a few firms now. Coincidentally, this was the price Divercity opened at the year they won.

Looking down the field at possible dangers, it looks like it will come down to how they structure the semi finals.

I'm sure the dog acts and bell ringers will struggle, the comedians rarely have enough or any new and original material. Michael Collings who was an early front runner is unlikely to top his audition performance of "Fast Car" and although clearly talented how many times do you want to see a guy bouncing around on his bike?

Its a weak year, so at the price i'm taking a chance with a trio who can vary their act, make the audience smile and perform a well organised, slick dance act.

If the semi final line ups go our way, I will likely invest heavier but for the time being its small stakes.

0.5pt Two and a Half Men @ 25/1.