YOUNG singers and dancers will be putting the gloss on their performances this week before the final of a regional talent contest.

The best 25 acts are preparing to go head-to-head at Durham's Gala Theatre on Sunday to find the winner of TalentSTAR 2003.

More than 1,000 acts have taken part in 20 heats at schools and colleges across County Durham, Tyneside and Wearside since January, prior to four semi-finals to reduce the contenders to the line-up of 25 for Sunday's show.

An estimated 10,000 people voted during the heats and semi-finals to decide which acts progressed.

The finalists are now hoping to impress a panel of judges, and will be performing before an anticipated sell-out audience, to earn what could prove a stepping stone to success.

The top prize for Sunday's winner includes a website, photoshoot and recording session with music producers.

Adam Chetter, talentSTAR's development manager, said: "Whereas Pop Idol and Fame Academy see performers seeking instant fame, the performers who have taken to the stage on the tour are all in it for the love of performing.

"But, who knows, the next Robbie, Kylie or even Stereophonics might be found at the show."

Sunday's final starts at 6.30pm, with the winner expected to be chosen at about 10.30pm.