THE time has come again for Pendle's pensioners to take to the stage for the annual over 60s talent contest in Colne.

The YOURS Silver Stars Talent Contest is back in town and will be searching for Pendle's top performing pensioner at the first local heat at Colne Municipal Hall on Thursday, May 8, at 2pm.

Every contestant will walk away with a commemorative certificate and the winner of the Pendle local heat will automatically go forward to the North West area final at the Floral Hall, Southport on May 28.

The winners from each area final will then join their fellow silver superstars and perform in front of a 2000-strong audience at the Grand Final on July 30 at Southport's legendary Apollo Theatre.

A judging panel will select the most outstanding act who will be crowned YOURS Silver Star 2003 and receive £1,000 cash prize money.

This year's contest is again being supported nationally by Age Concern.

National Director and organiser Bob Brierley said: "The contest proves age is no barrier when it comes to succeeding in showbiz. It also gives many senior citizens their first opportunity to perform before a live audience and fulfil a life-long dream. We are also delighted that Age Concern are supporting the contest for the second year running."

To enter the show, or for details, call Harold Hoggarth on 01282 661234.

Tickets cost £1 each on the door.