X Factor fame could be on the cards for a star struck teenager who won a Citizen-backed competition.

Singer and dancer, Craig Worsley, 16, of Birchwood Drive, Fulwood, winner of the 2005 Search for a Star competition, wants to follow in the footsteps of Shayne Ward by auditioning for the famous television talent show.

Craig, who studies at the prestigious performing arts college, Young Americans, in Los Angeles, is hoping his written application will be enough to give him a chance to impress the judges including Mr Nasty himself Simon Cowell.

"You have to send in an application with your picture and they decide whether or not you would be good enough for the X Factor," said Craig, a former Hutton Grammar School pupil.

"I'd love to be given the chance to show them what I can do."

But he said he owes his success to Search for a Star, organised by South Ribble Borough Council, that helped him get his foot on the ladder to success. "If it wasn't for the competition I don't think I would have made it this far," said Craig, who is enjoying a few weeks at home with mum, Jeanette, dad, Trevor, and brothers, Lukas, and Jacob, before flying back to Los Angeles on December 15.

"It was the first thing I ever won and it gave me lots more confidence."

He said his idols, as well as Robbie Williams and Justin Timberlake, are his mum and dad who have helped him achieve his dreams.

o If like Craig, you want a shot at stardom you can audition for the popular Search for a Star competition, now in its fourth year, on Thursday, February 16, at the Civic Centre, West Paddock, Leyland.

Auditions take place between 7pm and 9pm.

Ten people will be chosen to perform in the final in front of a panel of judges, including Citizen news editor, Jane Willis, on Friday, March 24th, for a chance to win £200, donated by BNFL Westinghouse. For details contact 01772 625542.