A BLACKBURN teenager's dream of big screen stardom has been hit by a cruel con.

Zara Silverwood, 18, of Moorgate Gardens, responded to an advertisement seeking film extras in July.

The confident teenager had hoped the opportunity could be the start of big things.

But after her parents paid out £150 they have heard nothing. Trading Standards said they have had no complaints about the ad but have urged people who have lost money in such circumstances to contact them.

Zara's parents have spoken out to ensure that others don't fall for it. Dad Keith Silverwood, said: "We're more concerned about someone else getting stung."

He said the family had just come back from an enjoyable holiday where outgoing Zara had been regularly on stage with entertainment staff, when she saw the ad and decided to pursue the first steps to stardom.

Mr Silverwood said: "Basically they had her on the phone and told her it would be a glamorous life. There was a registration fee of £150. She was that excited that I agreed and let them take it off my credit card.

"They convinced my daughter they would have local auditions and would come and pick her up They told her it was a chance in a lifetime. We've not heard anything at all since and I wonder how many other people have fallen for it too."

Mr Silverwood says the company sounded authentic and among its claims were that they have organised castings for famous people, while Zara also sent a photograph of herself by e-mail that was to be added to a portfolio. A credit card bill shows that the money has gone to a Spanish company.

He added that his daughter had been left "gutted" by the experience.

Chris Allen, Head of Trading Standards & Advice Services at Blackburn with Darwen Council said: "When responding to advertisements of this nature people should ensure that they obtain a detailed contract of exactly what is guaranteed to be provided before they pay.

"In this particular scenario where it involves placements as film extras, we would advise people to seek evidence of what success the company has had in obtaining work within the industry and check these out with the film companies concerned."

He added that consumers can claim back money from their credit card company in the event of a company not complying with the terms of a contract, provided the fee is more than £100.