GLITZY gran Eileen Nuttall has been crowned Hyndburn's most talented pensioner in the first round of a national contest.

Eileen, 62, was one of nine hopefuls who trod the boards at Accrington Town Hall, and her spectacular rendition of Titanic favourite My Heart Will Go On dazzled the judges. After much Pop Idol-style deliberation they unanimously agreed that it was her superb voice and impressive stage presence which made her stand out from the crowd.

The Accrington grandmother of 12 will go forward to the North West Area Final at the Floral Hall, Southport, on May 29. Winners from each area final will join their fellow silver superstars in front of a 2,000-strong audience at the grand final on July 24 in the resort's Apollo Theatre.

Three-time Silver Stars winner Eileen is no stranger to the limelight. She often performs in local clubs and at sheltered

accommodation. The talented gran took up singing 10 years ago with her husband. Unfortunately, he was unable to partner her in the contest -- because he is too young.

In July, a judging panel will select the most outstanding act who will be named Silver Star 2002 in the contest sponsored by Yours magazine. The winner will receive £1,000 prize money. This year's competition is being supported nationally by Age Concern. The 50-year-old Silver Stars Talent Contest is run in association with local authorities.