EVEN if they do not win, the Worcester’s Got Talent hopefuls will have fun.

The competition, taking place at Sin Bar in association with the Worcester News later this year, is an opportunity for local people to showcase their talent, whether it is singing, dancing, magic or something out of ordinary.

Former Miss Worcester Leanne Groutage took part in the 2009 contest with friends and fellow dancers Molly Andrews and Molly Hunt. The girls did not win, but they enjoyed every minute. “We had a lot of fun,” said Miss Groutage, who will soon leave Worcester to study at London Studio Centre dance school.

“People who are thinking about entering have got nothing to lose.

“Everyone in the audience will be looking for talent or family and friends so they are really supportive.”

The 18-year-old, who was hand-picked to take part in BBC show So You Think You Can Dance? earlier this year, reached the semi-final of Worcester’s Got Talent.

She was competing against an array of other performers, including 74-year-old singer Bernie Winters.

Mr Winters, a retired aircraft engineer of Powick, near Worcester, is proof that people of all ages can take part in the talent show.

He said: “My wife spotted a bit in the paper and said I should give it go because it would be a nice night out for us.” Semi-professional Mr Winters continues to perform in residential and care homes across the county. Dates for the 2010 Worcester’s Got Talent have not yet been fixed, but people can sign up now. There will be live heats in front of a panel of judges once a week, followed by a quarter-final, semi-final and glittering grand finale. There is £5,000 up for grabs and the overall winner will get £2,500.

To enter fill out the application form in the Worcester News, download it from worcesternews.co.uk or pick one up from Sin in New Street or Bushwackers in the Trinity in Worcester. Send applications to Bushwackers, Trinity Street, Worcester, WR12PW.

E-mail toddysin@googlemail.com or call Paul Todd direct on 07919 363737.