PERFORMERS from all across East Lancashire are being sought to showcase their talents at the second stage of Aviva Tour of Britain.

Members of Colne Town Council have said that they have found that buskers do not need a licence to perform, and are appealing for people to apply to take part on Monday, September 7.

Anybody can apply to take part in Colne which is the venue for the end of the race.

They can also contact their own council to see if it is possible can perform in their local area.

The Stage 2 of this year's tour will be travelling through the Ribble Valley, visiting places including Clitheroe, Longridge, Ribchester and Sabden before moving into Pendle and to Colne via Brierfield and Nelson.

Cllr Ash Sutcliffe, chairman of Colne Town Council’s Events Committee said: "We’ve discovered that buskers in Colne do not need a licence.

"We are hiring some performers for the day, but we’d like to encourage gifted amateurs who perhaps practice card tricks on their relatives, or those with undiscovered musical talent, to come forward.

"We anticipate the town being absolutely packed on September 7, so this could be a real opportunity for those that feel they are ready to step into the limelight.”

Cllr Christian Wakeford, who represents Pendle West on Lancashire County Council, said: "Anything that encourages more people to get involved in varied and diverse ways has to be welcome.

"I would like to see entertainers throughout the route not just in Colne.

"The town is where the race will end and very much is a centre piece of the whole day.

"I hope that people who are showcasing their talents on the day itself will be able to add and contribute towards the carnival feeling.

"I hope that as many people as possible are able to get involved in the race day and try to make it as memorable for people as possible.

"The people of Pendle have a lot to offer and this is just another way to make the race a great event."

Applicants should contact Colne Town Council’s Clerk at the Town Hall either in person or by emailing info@colnetowncouncil.org.uk or calling 01282 841599.

The deadline for applicants to perform in Colne is August 1.