THE search to find the brightest musical stars in East Lancashire has begun.

The first heat of the Lancashire Telegraph-backed Reidy’s Talent Contest saw Seventies’ inspired Clitheroe rock band Good Foxy and 11-year-old prodigy Henry Gallagher get through to the grand final to be held at King George’s Hall, Blackburn, on Thursday, March 27.

Eight acts were competing for the two places, each performing three songs in front of a panel of judges, which included Lancashire Telegraph features editor John Anson.

Those taking part were The Lebrels, Jess Harwood, Chip Butty Man, Dead End Dreams, Grace Davies and Nothern Lights with music styles ranging from heavy metal to comedy songs.

The standard of competition was so high the judges have decided that two wild cards will also go through to the final once the competition’s four heats have been held.

At stake is a £1,000 voucher to spend at Reidy’s Home of Music superstore in Blackburn, a chance to record at the Grand in Clitheroe and a video produced by Blackburn College.

The heats will be held for the next three Thursdays at Blakey’s at King George’s Hall. Doors open at 7pm and admission is £3.