TALENTED youngsters impressed a 200 strong crowd last night with renditions of their favourite songs and dance routines for a Royal Blackburn Hospital fundraiser.

St Wilfrid’s CofE High School and Technology College held its own version of Pop Idol to find rising stars.

After a tense live show, Lucy Spencer, 15, was crowned the winner with her version of Alicia Keys’ hit New York.

Inspired by friend Ben Leeson, 17, who found limited resources on the children’s ward at the hospital when he stayed there, Junaid Mussa, 17, set about raising some money.

After auditions during breaks and lunchtimes, the chosen 23 acts were mentored ready for the performance.

They were rated by staff judges and buckets with the faces of each act attached were circulated.

The performer with the most donations was the overall winner.

Jan Canning, head of sixth form, said: “I am extremely proud of all of our students, it was a fantastic evening.

"It was not just about raising money but raising students self esteem and improving their confidence.

"It allowed all students to shine and I am proud and amazed at the philosophy behind it."

The school raised £956 on the night and Barclays Bank added another £750 to the pot.

Click on the link below to see our picture gallery from the event.