WITH just over a month to go until auditions open for a council talent contest, youngsters are starting to brush up on their performing skills.

The W Factor, organised by Wychavon District Council, is set to return and open auditions will start in January to find the area's talented young singers, dancers, comedians and actors.

Jenny Davis, the council's arts development officer, said: "It’s a privilege to bring back The W Factor again to Wychavon.

"Over the years the competition has been brilliant for developing young artists, but it’s also been great at helping those taking part to develop their confidence and build a strong personality, which will hopefully help them as they pursue their careers."

The competition is open to performers aged between 11 and 18 who live in Wychavon, and the categories they can enter are dance, singing, drama, circus and comedy.

The first audition will be held at Droitwich Spa High School on Tuesday, January 17, from 5.30pm.

The next will take place on Wednesday, January 18, at the De Montfort School in Evesham from 5.30pm.

And the last audition will be held at the Civic Centre in Pershore on Thursday, January 19, again, from 5.30pm.

The selected finalists will get to perform at the Number 8 Arts Centre in Pershore with industry-standard production facilities on Monday, March 6, from 7.30pm.

The winners will also get training from professional artists to help them develop and they will be able to perform at local events throughout the summer.

To attend an audition, fill out an application form which is available at wychavon.gov.uk/events-training-and-workshops

Alternatively, telephone Rahma Matin on 01836 565208 or email rahma.matin@wychavon.gov.uk to request a form and return it to: Wychavon District Council, Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, WR10 1PT.