ARE you harbouring a secret singing talent, yearning to pick up the microphone and show the world what a superstar you really are?

Be it a busker in the street, a karaoke queen or little one with big dreams — there is a stage in Bolton ready to make everyone a star.

The spotlight is being shone in Bolton Market Place as the shopping centre launches its first singing competition.

Sing Bolton Sing is on the hunt for talented vocalists from around the town.

The competition is open to amateurs of all ages with a grand prize of £10,000 while second place takes away £3,000 and £1,000 goes to the third placed act.

Starting on January 28, anyone from soloists, duos, groups, bands and even choirs are invited to take to the stage in the Market Place.

Performing to the public and judges, the top two go through to a grand final which will be held in early April.

Market Place manager Nikki Wilson-Cook said: “I’m looking forward to meeting all the talented singers Bolton has to offer. I think it is the first time Bolton has done anything like this.

“With £10,000 up for grabs we are very serious about the competition.

“I would love us to find the next big star for Bolton. There is a lot of talent out there, there are a lot of good singers and musicians in the town.”

The hunt is also on to find Bolton’s very own Simon Cowell or Nicole Scherzinger as members of the public are invited to judge the acts and decide who is worthy of going through to the final round.

Anyone aged 16 and over can apply to be part of the judging panel.

One member of the public is also sought to join a judging panel, which includes Maxine Cherrie of Bolton Rock Choir, and a member of The Bolton News team and Bolton FM team, for the grand final.

The competition will take place every Saturday in the centre of the Market Place between 10am and 5pm.

Brave performers have a 20-minute slot to sing their hearts out and try to impress the watching public and, of course, the judges.

All genres of music are welcome and performers are asked to bring their own music and instruments.

Family and friends are invited along to watch their loved ones perform but cannot be judges on that day.

Members of the public chosen for the judging panel will be impartial.

To apply for Sing Bolton Sing, contact Cathy Savage at the Market Place at cathy@marketplacebolton.co.uk with dates you are available, or visit www.boltonmarketplace.co.uk.