PUPILS are fine tuning their vocal chords as rehearsals get underway for their very own Eurovision Song contest.

The Darlington Mayor's Schools Eurovision Song Contest has become a popular event and this year will see choirs from 22 schools battling it out for the honours at the Dolphin Centre on Friday, February 9 from 6pm.

Young representatives from each school were invited to the Town Hall to attend a draw ceremony in the council chambers with the Mayor and her consort, Cllrs Jan Taylor and Chris Taylor.

In a new twist to this year’s competition, rather than each school representing a different country, they have been given the challenge of performing past UK Eurovision entries – with the selected song all in the luck of the draw.

The songs include some well known Eurovision winners including ‘Save your kisses for me’, ‘Making your mind up’, ‘Puppet on a string’ and ‘Love shine a light’.

Councillor Jan Taylor, Mayor of Darlington said: "Our schools Eurovision has proved really popular and I’m delighted to continue with this tradition and for the chance to meet some of our very talented youngsters.

“I’m sure people will remember many of the songs, all UK entries this time, and I can’t wait to see how the youngsters perform them. I hope as many people as possible will join us to cheer them on and help raise funds for our local charities and good causes.”

The idea of a primary schools’ Eurovision Song Contest was born from former Mayor Cllr Tom Nutt’s passion for international links and the towns' associated twinning arrangements.