WORCESTERSHIRE people with bags of talent could have the opportunity of a lifetime thanks to the BBC.

Auditions are to take place for a new reality TV programme called Fame Academy.

In a new twist on the 70s hit TV series Fame, the documentary - which will be broadcast on BBC1, BBC Choice and Radio 1 - will focus on the real-life stories, characters and relationships of the 12 chosen students.

Each week they will be seen and heard studying at a secret location.

Worcester people aged between 18 and 35 will have the opportunity to audition at the Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre.

"We will see them rehearsing together and witness all the tears, tantrums, successes and failures along the way - this will be Fame for real," said a spokeswoman for the BBC Entertainment department.

"Some of the biggest stars of today will visit the academy to give further advice and support as the students train to become the ultimate performers.

"In this highly-pressurised environment the challenge is to stay ahead, as each week those who aren't making the grade will have to leave the Academy."

Public voting and viewer interaction will play a key role in the series as the academy's star students begin to develop.

Applicants, who are being advised to rehearse, should also take along a recent full-length photograph of themselves.

Auditions will take place at the theatre's Thorp Street, entrance from 9am on Saturday, August 17.

People are being urged to arrive early because only a limited number will be screen-tested.