WANNABE pop idols are being invited take part in the Burnley and Pendle 'Stars in Their Eyes' competition.

The singing competition is being backed by Pennine Police who have secured £5,000 from the Rank Charitable Foundation to help fund the contest.

The next auditions will take place Padiham Youth Centre on Saturday, May 20 at 2pm.

It is hoped the competition will direct the attention of local youths into something fun and worthwhile, keeping them off the streets.

Supt Steve Hartley from Pennine Police said: "A similar contest was run by Brunshaw Action Group in Burnley last year and it proved to be a huge success.

"Thanks to the funding we've obtained from the Rank Foundation, this year's competition will be even bigger and better with young people from Pendle being invited to take part, as well a those from Burnley.

"From a policing point of view, we're delighted to be supporting the contest."

The Stars in their Eyes contest is open to youths aged nine upwards. A grand finale will be held at the Burnley Mechanics in July.

To find out more, call Michael Bailey at Brunshaw Action Group on 01282 715499 or 07984145141.