MAKING a melody melt in the mind and penning lyrics that hit the heart are the two striking ingredients needed for a songwriting competition.

Talented songwriters will soon be singing their way to success when the npower Young Songwriters' competition comes to Huntingdon Hall.

A mixture of music genres, ranging from rock to R&B, have so far been entered for the competition.

Officials in the Worcester venue at CrownGate are presently sorting through the 25 tapes to select the six lucky finalists who will play on the night at the beginning of February.

"It's a really high standard of entrance which makes it quite difficult to decide," said Esther Blaine, assistant director at Huntingdon Hall.

"I've listened to all sorts of music from heavy rock to soul, R&B and some pop." This is the second time the competition has taken place.

It made its debut in 2000 as part of BBC Music Live and was so successful, Huntingdon Hall decided to hold it again this year.

The competition is sponsored by npower and musicians from areas including Worcester, Ledbury and Bromsgrove, Herefordshire and Powys, in Wales, have entered tapes in the hope they will be picked for the big night.

Esther, and hall director Chris Jaeger, are currently in the process of listening to the tapes and comparing notes.

"We have to compare notes and select the final six," said Esther.

"We've had more entries this year than the last time.

"The songs don't have to meet recording quality, but have to have a good melody and lyrics".

This year the judging panel will consist of Mike Sanchez of the Mike Sanchez Band, (and keyboard player with Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings and former frontman with Big Town Playboys), Mike George, BBC Hereford & Worcester presenter, and John Phillpott, Evening News columnist.

First prize consists of a £250 cash prize and the chance to record a song on a CD in a recording studio.

Second and third prizes consist of £150 and £100 respectively.

"Last time, entries ranged from grunge, to jazz and singer/songwriter type music," said Esther.

"The final six were a real mixed bag of music."

The winners from 2000 were Painted Lady by Adonis, All Adds Up by Jon Ballard and Too Late by Mark Elmore.

"It's a really good night," said Esther.

"Last year, the audience participated and gave the bands their support. The night got the crowd in a frenzy".

The event is to be held on Saturday, February 2, and admission costs a minimum of £2 or £1 for concessions.

For further details contact the box office on 01905 23428.