A BUDDING DJ has been given a once in a lifetime opportunity -- to play a set at the Miami Winter Music Conference.

John McKinlay, 22, of Tattersall Street, Padiham, will be pumping-up the volume to thousands of spectators at the annual music conference.

John is to jet out on Wednesday in time for the big party on Thursday before entertaining the masses on Friday.

His biggest achievement will be meeting his idols, Paul Oakenfold, John Digweed and Sacha at the massive event.

He said: "I want to make myself known and be able to have a chat with the likes of Paul and a John."

The former Habergham High School pupil has worked as a professional DJ at the former Angels Club in Burnley and the town's Keirby Hotel, but is now looking for regular work after spending a year in Amsterdam, Holland, working at one of the country's top clubs --Escape. John, who now has a Friday night show on internet radio Pulse, playing progressive house tunes, will be travelling to Miami with the station's crew and staying in the luxurious Chesterfield Hotel.

He said: "It's really like a dream come true for me. I am hoping to meet a lot of influential people who will notice me and perhaps even offer me some work.

"I still can't believe that I have been given the chance to play. Radio One will be there along with all the big name DJs including Pete Tong, Judge Jules and Fat Boy Slim who may end up listening to my music.

"I am hoping that something big will come from it but I will just enjoy the moment. It will be something I will never forget."