CHORLEY singer James Loynes has been selected to represent the North West in the national final of the country's longest running talent competition after winning the Search for a Star competition in Southport at the weekend.

James, 20, of Linden Grove, Hartwood Park, thrilled a packed audience at Southport Theatre to beat off competition from nine other finalists to finish first in the competition and scoop the £700 prize money.

He will now go forward to compete in the 28th grand national final of the British Resorts' Association Search for a Star competition, which takes place in Southport for the first time in 12 years.

In the final on November 20 he will compete against talented entertainers from resorts throughout the country in the hope of taking home the title and a share of the £4,000 prize money on offer.

James had the audience spellbound with his performance of Frank Sinatra's Come Fly With Me and Can you Feel the Love Tonight from the Lion King.

He said: "The whole evening was great and the audience were fantastic. It was a pleasure to be involved regardless of the outcome, which of course is a massive bonus. I'm now looking forward to the national contest in November."

For tickets, which are £12, call the box office on 01704 500036, or Ticketmaster on 0870 6077560.