TALENTED townsfolk were out in force on Saturday night for the Redditch Carnival Millennium Talent Contest.

More than 20 acts took to the stage in front of a packed audience at Arrow Valley Social Club to vie for honours in three age categories.

The four judges, including Miss Redditch Caroline Chew, faced a daunting task as competition was fierce.

In the 10-16 age category, girl group Obsession - consisting of 15-year-olds Laura Barlow, Catherine Gurney and Shenna Rowe - took first prize, singing and dancing to their own up-beat composition.

Dance ensemble Tango got the event off to a vibrant and colourful start and there were powerful performances from solo singer Lee Harris and singer/songwriter Howard Kenny.

Sally Ann McFarland proved to have a voice to be reckoned with after scooping top prize in the 17-25 age category.

And Sammy Green sang unaccompanied to take first place in the 26-and-over age category.

The winners were presented with Oscar-style trophies and £50 prize money by contest sponsors The Redditch Advertiser.

Carnival committee chairman Liz Johnson said: ''It was an extremely successful evening.

''It proved just how many highly talented people there are in Redditch who should be very proud of their entertaining skills.

''We were only surprised that all these people don't show off their talents more often.''

To get people in the carnival mood, there are two more warm-up events before the big day on Saturday, September 16.

A Funday Carnival Night will be held at HDA Sports and Social Club in Red Lane, Batchley, on Saturday from 7.30pm.

Miss Redditch will be presented with the key to the town and trophies will be handed out to the winners of the It's a Knockout competition.

This will be followed with a disco until late, provided by Taboo. Admission is £1.

And on carnival eve, Friday, September 15, there will be a 70s night, also at the HDA club, which will be in aid of town charities.

For more details on the 70s night, call Elaine on 457324.