YOUNGSTERS hoping to be the next Mariah Carey or Britney Spears strutted their stuff at an audition for a new pop band.

The cream of Bolton's young pop talent hit the high notes for the chance to join Junior Dream Idols, who will tour the country performing well-known hits.

Around 20 girls aged eight to 14 performed at the Albert Halls, where they sang their favourite songs in front of a judge.

The group was whittled down to eight, who sang again for the chance to be one of six youngsters to perform at the Albert Halls next month alongside established tribute act DreamKids UK.

After the concert, one of the six will be selected to attend a northern final in Billingham, Teesside, before a national grand final is held.

Ten performers will be chosen at the grand final to form the Junior Dream Idol group, who will record their own CD.

The talented competitors auditioned in groups of 10, and Tony Woolnough, of the Dream Idol audition team, said the standard was very high.

The six who will go on to sing at the venue are Rebecca Tate, aged 10, Hannah Baines, aged 11, Hollie Farrell, Chloe Weston, and Hannah Wright, all aged 14, and Cherie Taylor, aged 12.

Chloe, who lives in Chip Hill, Deane, and goes to St James' School, Farnworth, sang "Hero", by Mariah Carey.

"I'm really excited that I got through," she said. "I hope my friends and family will be there to cheer me on at the concert.

Hollie, of Filton Avenue, Deane, who attends Canon Slade School, sang Celine Dion's "Think Twice". She said: "It was my first audition, so I can't believe I got through. I'm really looking forward to singing on stage and nothing will make me miss it."

Hannah Baines, aged 11, from Kenmor Avenue, Bury, arrived late for the audition as the winners were being selected, but she was allowed to sing and impressed the judges enough to be chosen to be among the six.

"I didn't know whether I would be allowed to sing but I'm glad I was. I'm very excited to have been chosen," she said.

Mr Woolnough said: "I've been impressed today with the singers. Who knows, Bolton's own Britney Spears could be among these girls."

The youngsters will return to the Albert Halls to sing alongside the DreamKids UK at the "Bring It On" event on August 24.