AFTER more than two months of tense competition, this year’s Text Factor will draw to a conclusion this week.

Sin, in New Street, plays host to 18 finalists tomorrow night as they go head-to-head in Worcester’s biggest singing contest.

They have survived weekly eliminations, received support and seen the introduction of dancers, live instruments and props along the way.

They will be judged on a combination of the judge’s scores and text voting from the audience.

The four people on the panel are Michael Bublé tribute act Steve Maitland, Tina V of This Wicked Tongue, radio presenter JD and Marade of Broadwater Entertainment.

Previous entrants include Malvern’s X Factor chart-topper Cher Lloyd and Worcester’s classical soprano and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Pippa Langhorne.

Organiser Paul Todd said: “The competition has been exceptionally strong this year, if not our strongest.

"Contestants are thinking much more about their performance as a whole, including light and visual extras.

“This has led to some very memorable performances, to say the least. The performances in this final are a result of nine weeks’ mentoring and practice.

"The theme is UK and US hits and I’m very excited to see what they bring to the stage.

“Whatever the result, I hope the contestants take what we have taught them and continue on to greater things.”

This year’s winner will be selected from Tom Sandell, Heather Daniel, Laura Mcfee, Fiona Parkes, Leonicks, Sheridan Gorman, Charm, Stephella, Jenny Anne Blackett, Cerys Jones, Abbie Davies, Sophie Morwood, Claire Sones, Samantha Harwood, Anita Lenegan, Kerry, Fi Dobbs and Ellie Goble.

They will perform a diverse range of tracks from Coldplay to Tina Turner and GooGoo Dolls to Rihanna. The prize up for grabs includes a cheque for £1,250, an appearance on stage with Steve Maitland at the Swan Theatre as part of the Michael Bublé Tribute Show and a mentoring session from Broadwater Entertainment.

The second and third placed acts will get £750 and £250 respectively.

Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets are available for £5 from Bushwackers to include entry to the after party.