SINGING a hit made famous by 'Ol' Blue Eyes' has earned a Chorley grandfather a place in a national talent competition.

Eddie Saxon, of Gregson Lane, Hoghton, is now in with a chance of winning £1,000 and being crowned 'Silver Star 2003' when he competes in the Yours magazine's talent contest grand final on July 30.

The retired BMW model worker will be competing alongside 12 other singers, in the age 60-plus category, at Southport Theatre. And Eddie, 71, is confident of coming out on top after entertaining crowds for more than 40 years.

"I've got lots of experience and think I stand a good chance," he said.

Eddie proved he had what it takes after being placed second for his rendition of the Frank Sinatra classic Witchcraft in the recent North West final of the contest at the Floral Hall, Southport. Eddie said: "I had a great time at the North West final and was delighted to reach the top three."

For the finals Eddie, who has two children, is aiming to wow crowds again with the famous Sinatra hit, The Lady is a Tramp.

And he is no stranger to the limelight after singing to audiences and winning other competitions at clubs in Chorley and Blackburn during the 1960s. He has also scooped 'Stars in their Eyes' type contests on cruise ships.

These days Eddie enjoys belting out the old classics to raise money for local charities including St Catherine's Hospice, Lostock Hall.

On the day of the big final Eddie will be cheered on by wife Jean, daughters Michelle and Jeannette and teenage grandchildren, Chloe and Callum.