THE number could be up for bingo callers after Brian Gillatt won a place in the national final of Bingo Caller of the Year.

For the first time in the three years of entering the competition, Brian, 43, scooped the title of Best in the North.

He now faces four other hopefuls in the final round in a bid to becoming Britain's number one caller and the ambassador of bingo. And Brian could be shouting 'legs eleven' in Las Vegas if he wins.

Brian is a big favourite with regulars at Gala Bingo, Centenary Way, Burnley and is still a popular face in Blackburn where he worked at the former Riva for four years.

In 2000 and 2001 he finished within a couple of points of the regional winner, narrowly missing out on a place in the grand finals.

Judges this year said they were impressed with his sense of fun, his professionalism and clear calling voice.

Brian has been a caller for 26 years.

He said today: "I never thought I would be good enough but I suppose my personality got the better of the judges.

"All the players were screaming and cheering when it was announced that I was on my way to the final.

"It's really nerve-racking, I have been trembling ever since I got the news."

Brian will now be joined in the final by four other callers from Scotland, the Midlands, the South and Wales to compete for the title of the British Bingo Caller of the Year and the prize of £500, plus a trip to Los Angeles and the chance to call a game at the Suncoast Casino in Las Vegas.