EAST Lancashire's shining stars were out in force to battle it out for the title of Blackburn and Darwen's most talented senior citizen.

Eight contestants took to the stage at King George's Hall, Blackburn, to perform in the Silver Stars competition, sponsored by Yours magazine. Andy McKenzie, 67, from Brook Street, Rishton, took first place with songs from Josef Locke and the musical, Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat, as well as renditions on his mouth organ.

Andy said: "I was absolutely flabbergasted when I heard the news, but it is all down to my wife Florence who twisted my arm to enter the competition. I just thought it was a bit of a laugh."

Runner-up was Ricky Holder who has won the competition for the past two years running, with songs by Frank Sinatra.

In third place was Derek Jackson who sang the Donny Osmond hit, the 12th of Never.

As well as winning a cash prize Andy qualifies for the North West regional final to be held in Southport on May 28. If he gets through that he will take part in the national final in July.

The competition, on Thursday night, was followed by a variety show.