YOUNG singers destined for the big time are being offered a major opportunity to storm the hit parade.

Farnworth tutor Jean Pasquill, nominated as Best Female Entertainer 2001, is offering a 12 month scholarship for a local youngster aged between 14 and 21.

Auditions will get underway at the end of April with the successful candidate being primed for the record industry.

Jean, who set up her successful "Fame" school called Melody Pop Tuition two years ago, has already had one of her starlets, Chelsey Mansell, signed with a big record label, Trinity Records.

Six other girls from the school are now waiting to hear from Sony Records who are expected to put a deal on the table in the next month.

Singers, Samantha Halliwell, Hayley Roberts, Niquita Hartshorn, Lauren Crossley, Melissa Pasquill and Kelly Wilson, will also appear on the Michael Barrymore My Kind of People in the summer after beating thousands at a Manchester heat to appear on the popular television show.

The scholarship was part of Jean's prize as the entertainer of the year, awarded by the Concert Federation Secretaries.

Jean explained: "It will have to be a person who can be marketed for the record industry. We're looking for someone who either sings alone or in a duo. No bands please -- we haven't got enough funding for that.

"It is an exciting opportunity for someone who really wants to make it in the record industry."

Those interested should register by ringing 01204 796979 leaving their details. Entries should be in by April 11.