YOUNG performers moved and grooved during a tough competition to see who had that elusive wow factor.

Pershore’s Number 8 Community Arts Centre was packed for the finale of the W-Factor competition on Monday (March 6).

The event saw 16 young people from across Wychavon compete in front of family and friends to be crowned a winner in one of four categories.

Once again the judges, who included dance specialist Vicki Porter, music specialist Abbey Inez and singer Tracy Norman, found it hard to pick the winners.

The winner in singing in the 11 to 13s category was Joshua Harris, aged 13 from Evesham (The De Montfort School).

His performance was described as 'beautiful', with the judges praising the nice tone of his vocals and his presentation.

The winner for singing in the 14 to 18s category was Hannah Just, aged 16, from Droitwich Spa High School.

She impressed with her good breath control and the strong registers in her voice.

The music category was won by David Rean aged 18 from Droitwich Spa (Droitwich Spa High School).

His performance was described as technically sound, professional and moving.

The dance category was won by Ava Piper, aged 11, with a 'beautiful performance' which 'flowed really nicely'.

Jenny Davis, arts development officer at Wychavon District Council, said: “It was a fantastic evening and the competition was as a tough as ever.

"The talent and passion of the young people taking part was evident to all.

"It’s been wonderful to see the performers grow in confidence following on from the auditions.

"Although not everyone could be selected as a winner, every participant has achieved so much by getting through to the final stage of the competition and we would want to encourage those that didn’t win to try again next year.”

Tracy Norman, singing judge, said: “It was a high standard as usual and the task of choosing the winners was difficult.

"I enjoyed the diversity of music and dance and the young people that won are ones to look out for in the future.”

Ava Piper, winner of the dance category, said: “I lost myself in the dance and felt like no-one was watching, it was a great atmosphere.”

The W-Factor winners will receive assistance with further training and will be invited to perform at events across Wychavon throughout the year.