STARS of the future need to be on high alert as Wychavon District Council has announced that the W-Factor talent competition is back.

With auditions beginning in the new year for the W-Factor 2013 finals, young people between the ages of 11 - 18 (on February 25) will once again have the opportunity to showcase their performing, visual and film talent.

The categories this time around are visual art, short film, music, singing, dance, drama, and circus skills. There will be a winner chosen from each category.

Two auditions will be held at the Civic Centre in Pershore on Wednesday, January 9 2013, from 4.30 - 6pm and on Wednesday, January 16 from 4.30 - 6pm.

The spectacular final will be held on Monday, February 25 from 7.30pm, at Number 8 Community Arts Centre, Pershore.

Tickets for the final will be £5 each from the Number 8 box office on 01386 555488. Tickets will be available from January 25.

The successful acts will receive assistance on further training and will be invited to perform at future Wychavon events, especially during the busy summer festivals.

Jenny Davis, arts development officer for the council, said: “I’m looking forward once again to seeing what talented young people come forward this year. There are always some surprises and interesting acts that bring an edge to the final show.

For more information and an application form, contact Sarah Ardin on 01386 565497 or e-mail sarah.ardin@wychavon.gov.uk. An application pack can also be downloaded from wychavon.gov.uk/art