CUSTOMERS are singing the praises of a Dundee newsagent — who has developed a penchant for breaking into song.
Bilal Sabir, 26 — known as Billy to customers — has been entertaining locals by singing while they shop at Lifestyle Express in Douglas.
And although colleagues insist he’s no Pet Shop Boy, Bilal insists “the show will go on”.
He started his unusual form of customer service just over a year ago, and tends to make up his songs as he goes.
He told the Tele: “I am just trying to give off some positive energy.
“I see people coming into the shop and sometimes they are stressed — and it puts a smile on their face.”
Fellow worker Hajji Mohammed, 56, has a laugh with Bilal over his antics.
He said: “It’s entertaining. He probably won’t be on The X Factor any time soon but the customers are happy.”
He added: “All the grannies love him but I’m still the favourite with the good-looking ladies.”
Khalid Mahmood, 52, who owns the Ballindean Road store, says he believes Bilal’s performances are helping to pull in shoppers.
The store, which underwent a major refurbishment three years ago, has been under his stewardship for more than 30 years but it’s the first time his staff have taken to entertaining their customers.
He said: “I think we do see an increase in customers.
“It’s a unique service that Bilal offers but the locals come in and they love it.”
Jim Petrie, 57, a local taxi driver — who has been going to the shop for a number of years — is always entertained.
He told the Tele: “I’ve heard him rapping — doing a bit of R ‘n’ B, he’s brilliant entertainment.
“Bilal cheers me up with his unique style.”
Hamza Sarfraz, 22, who has also worked in the store for just over a year, is usually Bilal’s partner in crime on the evening shift.
He added: “I am never bored when I work with him on the evening shift.
“He keeps me entertained, the shift is never dull.”
Bilal has no intention of entering any talent shows, however.
He added: “It comes naturally within the shop but I wouldn’t say I’ll be entering the X Factor — unless they invite me personally.
“I have always had this persona of telling jokes and keeping people entertained.
“Even in tense situations I try to lighten the mood and I have no intention of changing any time soon — so the show will go on.”