A SCHEME designed to give budding singers and dancers the chance to take to the stage is celebrating its success with the start of a new season.

The Starry Eyes Performance Foundation developed after plans four years ago to revive an annual talent show in Trowbridge proved a huge success.

Singers who have taken part in the community workshops and annual talent show since have been reaping the benefits.

Recent successes include Kimberly Seviour, of Melksham, who came third in a nationwide karaoke competition.

Sally Boyle, who set up the project which has been based at Longfield Community Centre, said: "The confidence our singers and dancers have gained has paid off in lots of different ways, not only in competitions but also generally.

"Youngsters have the opportunity to try something different and they also have the chance to perform in front of an audience later on if they want to."

Starry Eyes runs free sessions and workshops, but there is a small cost for more intensive sessions.

The new term starts on Sunday at 7pm with a discussion about what is on offer this term.

Details of how to enter the 2004 Starry Eyes talent show can be obtained from Mrs Boyle on (01225) 763720 or via www.starryeyesperformancefoundation.org.uk