A total of 15 contestants take to the stage at Selby Town Hall tonight (Saturday) for the district final of the X-Factor-style competition.

The top four acts will then go forward to the grand final at Selby Abbey on September 13 to battle it out for the coveted crown with competitors from Richmond, Craven and Harrogate.

Event co-organiser PC Dave White said: "We're really looking forward to both finals.

"It's been a fantastic community effort, and I'm sure there will be some top performances on the nights."

Judges at the Selby final include the town's very own Simon Cowell – Insp Dave Pegg – as well as Selby Town Council clerk Tina Mason and Association of Voluntary Services chief Gill Cashmore.

The grand final will be opened with a performance from last year's winner Emily Palmer, of Hambleton, who scooped top prize with a version of Mariah Carey's hit single Hero.

The event aims to build links between youngsters aged 11 to 17 and police, as well as give youths something to focus on during the summer break.

Both finals start at 7.30pm. Call 01757 708449 or visit the town hall to buy tickets. Any business wanting to sponsor the events should contact PC White at Selby Police Station on 0845 6060247.