CALL FOR TOP TALENT ENTRIES

CHARITIES have given their backing to Cheltenham's Top Talent competition being held at Beechwood shopping centre, Cheltenham/

The good causes set to benefit from the entertainment extravaganza have urged youngsters to get involved.

Cheltenham YMCA, National Star College and the St Vincent's and St George's Association hope to gain thousands of pounds from what will be one of the town's biggest ever talent contests.

Pictured are, from the left,Emma Nhachi from St Vincent's and St George's, Michael Ede from the YMCA, Mayor Barbara Driver and Michael Cooke, from the National Star College

Kate Green, fundraising director at the National Star College, in Ullenwood, said: "It is a great way to get people together to showcase what young talent there is in Gloucestershire, while also raising money for three very worthy causes.

"We can't wait to see what the night holds and we would like to say a huge thank you to Barbara Driver for all the work she is doing to raise both money and awareness for the college."

The special school and the two other organisations are Cheltenham mayor Barbara Driver's chosen charities for the year.

YMCA president David Wallace said: "Cheltenham's Top Talent is a great initiative by our mayor, offering a platform for all those Cheltenham citizens, both young and old, to showcase their particular talents, while raising the funds to support the mayor's chosen charities.

"Cheltenham YMCA is really keen to support this event, and the idea has captured the imagination of some of our younger members and residents."

Mr Wallace added that the YMCA would enter the contest.

St Vincent's and St George's Association, which helps disabled people, will put donations towards its overhaul programme, which will see each of its residents given their own front door.

Chairman Les Bonney said: "We are absolutely delighted to be involved and we see it as a wonderful event that will give young people a great way to showcase their talents."

Entries should be sent to the Echo by noon on November 11, with auditions taking place at the Beechwood on November 26 and 27.

The final will be on December 18. For more information also visit www. thisisgloucestershire.co.uk.

To sponsor the event call 01242 264108