A COMPETITION to find a pop idol in a west Wiltshire town has been launched. Melksham will host its own Pop Idol competition in the hope of finding Wiltshire's next big music star.

Sally Boyle of the Starry Eyes Group, based in Trowbridge and Ian Forester of Melksham band, Muttley, are backing the event.

Starry Eyes hopeful 15-year-old Rhiannon Lambert will be entering the competition, which could see her pitted against local rival Amy Griggs.

When asked about the rivalry between herself and Amy, she said: "We get on really well, Amy is lovely." She added: "I'm more used to doing classical, but I want to branch out into pop music as well."

The heats will be held between 12pm and 7pm on June 19 in Melksham Assembly Hall.

Event organiser Mr Forester said: "We've decided to organise a Pop Idol event as there is so much talent in the area."

Performers will have to sing a verse and a chorus from a song in front of a panel of independent judges.

The winners will then have to return to the Assembly Hall on July 3, where they will battle it out for the chance to perform at Melksham Party in the Park on July 16. Music based prizes will be awarded to the winners of the competition, which is being sponsored by GW Car Sales of Melksham.

Application forms are available from the Melksham Tourist Information Centre, or by phoning Adi Gray on (01225) 350204 or Sally Boyle on (01225) 763720. Entrants can also email starryeyesgroup@tiscali.co.uk for an application form.

Closing date for applications is June 11.