PERFORMERS picked up a mic and took to the stage in Bolton town centre for the chance to win £10,000.

Singers showcased their talent for Sing, Bolton Sing, which is now in its sixth week.

The X Factor style competition is being held at the Market Place, as the shopping centre has teamed up with Bolton FM and The Bolton News in search of the town’s best voice.

The winner will receive a £10,000 prize and two runners up will get their hands on £3,000 and £1,000 rewards.

This week 13-year-old Marianne Garcia from Lostock, sang Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys and impressed the judges with her ‘angelic’ voice.

The Bridgewater School pupil said: “I’ve sang in church before at a school competition but I’ve never done anything like this.

“Singing in front of this many people is nerve-wracking but I knew it would help improve my confidence.

“I really enjoyed it and I’m glad I got up there and gave it a go.

“I wasn’t aware of the £10,000 prize for the winner, I had only heard about the competition giving people a chance to sing on stage and it was great.

"It was nice to hear the judges describe my voice as angelic."

There was a strong showing of local talent, which included Bolton University student Jessie Richardson, aged 25.

Jessie, who lives in Tonge Moor and grew up in Darcy Lever, said: “I was so nervous at first but I really enjoyed it and I don’t feel like I did too badly.

“I’ve never done anything like this before, I’ve done pub karaoke and sung in front of people but never anything on this scale.

“There were so many thoughts going through my head but I just kept focussed and feel really happy with how it went.

“I’m very critical of myself but the judges had some lovely words to say about my voice so I’m feeling good about it.”

Heats are being held live in the centre every Saturday until April 8, and two acts from each heat will be put forward for the final on April 22.

To book your 20-minute slot in the audition heats, just email your name, age, address, mobile number, a list of Saturday dates you are available and a photo of yourself to cathy@marketplacebolton.co.uk, who will respond with the time and date of your audition.

Entries close on March 17.

Come prepared with a choice of two songs and either bring your own instruments or music with you on your mobile on the day, it can be plugged into the sound system.