RISING star Lee Nelson took centre stage to sing the praises of the latest talent competition organised to promote Nelson town centre.

Lee - real name Lee Houghton, of Earby - earned a special mention in last year's Starquest competition to find budding stars of the future.

And he stepped up to the microphone at the Admiral Centre Market Place, to entertain visitors and encourage late entrants to this year's event.

Organisers are putting the finishing touches to the latest event, which will be staged at the centre on August 7.

Local comedians, singers, dancers and musicians are being urged to enter and try to clinch the £1,000 worth of prizes up for grabs. Winners of this year's contest will be given the chance to record their act or song on a CD at Viva Recording Studios, Padiham.

Lee, 18, said: "I was talented spotted at last year's Starquest and I've been overwhelmed with bookings since then, including slots at top clubs in Blackpool.

"I would urge talented people to have a go. It's very well organised and gave me the stepping stone I needed to get gigs."

The contest is open to amateurs and application forms are available from Isobel Davies at Pendle Council on 01282 661677. It will be split into sections for the under and over 16s.

Isobel explained: "Starquest is just one of the many exciting events designed to put Nelson and the map and give local people the chance to excel themselves and have a fun day out."

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