WANNABE rock stars will be taking to the stage in Worcester this spring a bid to steal the limelight as part of a national talent competition.

National pub and restaurant chain Chicago Rock Caf is hosting the Rock Idol event at 57 venues across the country, with the first Worcester heat being held at the New Street venue this Thursday.

Thousands of pop-singer hopefuls have entered the competition nationwide, which will see one winner walk away with £2,000 in cash as well as the chance to cut a CD, tour a host of venues and the opportunity to work with professional singing coaches. And locally, more than 25 would-be stars have put themselves forward for the competition, which involves them singing one song of their choice to a backing tape.

After the initial heat there will be three more in Worcester, with a winner from each chosen by a panel of judges and put forward for the local final on Thursday, May 12.

The local champion will then be put forward for the regional heat, where they will be competing for a place in the national final, which is due to take place later in the year.

"We're very pleased with the response from local singers who want to take part in the competition," said Chicago Rock manager Dawn Shopland.

"They realise there's a very good chance that Rock Idol could be a stepping stone into they industry they adore.

"We think the standard is going to be very high and it should be a thoroughly entertaining few weeks."

Anyone still wanting to enter should fill in a form at Chicago Rock Caf or log onto www.rockidol.info and they will be put into one of the later heats.