SCORES of young hopefuls flocked to Blackpool to make a bid for stardom as the Pleasure Beach launched its own Pop Stars-style competition to find showstoppers for their summer entertainment.

Local singers determined to make names for themselves found themselves up against talent from all over the country.

Among them was 21-year-old Louise Wiltshire of Wellington Road, South Shore. She said: "It's a good competition but the pressure is quite severe, doing it in front of so many people.

"I don't think they were very impressed -- I only got two minutes. But I don't mind too much. I don't want to be in a band. I'm more interested in being a solo artist."

Louise, a graduate of Blackpool College's performing arts, sang Shania Twain's From this Moment On.

The Pleasure Beach will be creating a pop group for next year with further audition heats set for September 6 and October 11.

Those between 16 and 25 who can sing and dance and are ready for a grilling by a panel of judges should contact Deon Fowler on 01253 342426.