MORE than 300 hopefuls sang their hearts out at the Wyvern Theatre in a bid to win a part in the popular musical West Side Story.

The theatre received 350 audition forms back from youngsters aged nine to 25 years and 330 turned up to audition for the Summer Youth Project production.

Nicki Western, youth project co-ordinator and marketing officer for the theatre, said: "We had lots of new people. It was brilliant. We are glad to have so many older ones, aged 22 and 23 years."

The youngsters were split into two groups alphabetically.

They were taken through a warm up session singing and watched the producer of this year's show, Pollyann Tanner perform a dance routine.

The groups of 10, split into under-12s and over 13-year-olds, then had to dance on stage and sing Tonight round the piano.

They were awarded points out of 10 for both singing and dancing.

Fifty youngsters were asked back for recalls on Sunday for the main parts and speaking roles such as Bernardo, Anybodys and Baby John.

"The sheer volume of talent was overwhelming,'' added Nicki. West Side Story runs from August 3 to August 10 and tickets are from £8.50. Call the box office on (01793) 524481 for details.