A SINGER from Darlington is one step closer to a £10,000 prize and a possible signing with the UK's top tribute act agency after proving to be a sensation behind the microphone.

Toni Leach has won her local heat of Wannabe 2004, a national karaoke competition held by wine lodge chain Yates's.

After beating dozens of young hopefuls during the eight-week heats at Yates's Darlington bar, she will now go through to regional heats on Sunday. If successful, she will get the chance to sing in front of celebrity judge Carrie Grant in the final at Yates's flagship branch, in Leicester Square, on May 23.

The bar worker has been singing for as long as she can remember and will be battling it out in the regional final against John Hall, from Newton Aycliffe, and eight others.

Throughout the various heats of Wannabe 2004, contestants are judged on vocal talent, appearance, originality of performance, stage presence and crowd reaction.

For more information about Wannabe 2004, log on to www.yates-bars.com

Published: 26/04/2004