BUDDING DJs are being urged to put their talents to the test on the competitive stage.

Heats are under way for the 2003 DJ Competition organised by the Continuing Education Unit of North Yorkshire County Council.

Three contests have been held in Tadcaster, Kirkbymoorside and Bilton.

Other heats will be held in Scarborough on Thursday, April 24, Richmond on May 16, Whitby on May 22 and Northallerton on May 23.

The semi-final will follow on June 6 and the grand finale will take place at the Tadcaster Youth Arts Festival on July 5, in front of an expected crowd of 3,000.

Competitors are judged on technique, presentation and music selection and the winner will receive a pair of mixing decks, the chance to take part in workshops and a mentoring scheme with professional DJs.

Youth arts manager Paula Taylor said: "These people normally hide themselves away in their bedrooms because they don't get the opportunity to have a go.

"The DJ competition helps us discover the sort of talent out there and which youngsters want to go on a further journey of experience."

For an entry form contact (01609) 780780 extension 3019.