LOCAL youngsters with stars in the eyes are being invited take part in a Pendle Stars in their Eyes competition.

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

The next auditions will be held at Edge End School on Saturday, starting at 2pm.

The aim of the competition is to direct the attention of local youths into activities which keep 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, 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. It keeps the youths occupied and whilst they are rehearsing and competing, they are having fun in a safe environment which is in all our best interests."

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

To find out more about local heats, contact Michael Bailey at Brunshaw Action Group on 01282 459506.