TEENAGERS are being offered the chance to show they have got talent next Friday.

Ilkley Literature Festival has teamed up with Skipton Building Society to stage a ‘fame factor’ competition, with a top prize of a half-day recording session at a Yorkshire studio.

Musicians, song-writers and comedians, aged between 12 to 17, will be battling it out at Otley Courthouse to win the award of best group, best solo artist, best material and best act.

Judges include performance poet Michelle Scally-Clarke, who is currently in rehearsal at the West Yorkshire Playhouse, and music producer Edwin Preston.

Literature Festival director Rachel Feldberg, pictured, said: “We wanted to do something different for this young people’s club night and give young people a chance to compete in a friendly setting in front of judges who really know the music business and will be giving the youngsters useful tips.

“It’s going to be a great night and I know, unlike some well-known TV shows, our judges are out to be supportive, rather than critical!”

The project is supported by Otley Town Council and the Extended Schools Service, and the recording session for the winners will be held at the Bash Group studio in Harrogate, which is known for promoting young bands.

Anyone who would like to take part is asked to call 01943 462826 as soon as possible. Tickets for the show on Friday, May 21 at 7.30pm cost £5 and are available from Otley Courthouse, online at www.otleycourthouse.org.uk or on the door.