FORGET the X Factor — two local disc jockeys are hoping Bolton has got the Text Factor.

For DJs Damian Kelly and Simon Clare, who have worked at J2, BL1 and Reflex clubs, have come up with their own local version of the hit television talent show.

And the pair hope to unearth a singing sensation who will help to raise money for Bolton Hospice, with the 12 finalists recording a fundraising CD single for the cause.

Starting on March 4, and running over 10 weeks at the club, a shortlist of 12 Bolton singers will take to the stage.

There will be a panel of judges, but the final say on who gets voted off each week will be the audience.

With the help of their mobile phones, the clubgoers will use standard rate text messages to vote for their favourite act.

Simon and Damian have linked up with Bolton FM to run the competition each Thursday at the town centre nightclub, with the winner receiving a £1,000 prize.

“This isn’t like a karaoke competition in a local pub. It is a big, full production,” said Damian. “There has not been anything like this in Bolton before. There is a lot of talent out there that goes unrecognised.”

Judges lined up to fill the Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh, Danni Minogue and Cheryl Cole roles, are former Big Brother housemate Luke Marsden, Bolton FM presenter Carl Hartley and professional singer Nicola Makin.

“We are also hoping to get a few other special guest judges,” said Damian.

Auditions for the competition, which has been named The Text Factor, take place on February 19 and 20 at Ikon.

Although the competition will follow similar lines to the TV show there will be some differences.

The participants will not have mentors to coach them or head off to an exotic location before the finals.

“Unfortunately they won’t be whisked off to a penthouse in Tenerife or Florida,” said Damian.

For more information, visit www.thetextfactor.net.