A PUB in Chester-le-Street is staging the local final of a national talent contest that has attracted thousands of entrants from across the country.

The 12 singers who have qualified for the Rock Idol final will appear at the Chicago Rock Cafe as they bid to represent the town at the latter stages of the competition.

A month of heats at the venue has whittled down about 100 entrants to the final dozen, who will take part in the local final next Monday, when two will be chosen for the regional final later in the spring.

Prizes for the national winner include £2,000 in cash, the chance to cut a CD, take a tour of venues and the opportunity to work with professional singing coaches.

Mark Warrilow, manager of Chicago Rock Cafe in Chester-le-Street, said the standard on show had been impressive.

He said:"The Rock Idol heats have taken our breath away. There has been such a high-class throughout our month of heats, meaning we have a great line-up for the local final.

"The judges on the night are going to have a tough job as we look to find two performers to represent Chester-le-Street in the regional and national stages of the competition.

"We are extremely confident that we can produce a talent that can go all the way to the national final and possibly even win Rock Idol for Chester-le-Street.

"The prizes on offer will certainly give the national winner a great stepping stone to make it into the industry they love."