ASPIRING singers are being invited to take part in X Factor-style auditions for a chance to join one of Dorset’s leading youth choirs.

Vocal Impact Youth Choir is holding auditions in Wimborne and Ferndown on May 17 to recruit fresh new talent.

Samuel Adams, founder of Vocal Impact, said new members must be passionate and determined and have a voice that deserves to be heard.

He said: “This is more than a local youth choir – it’s a local youth choir with a go-get-‘em attitude.

“We want to discover our local talent and bring them together to create a professional standard choir the whole community can be proud of.”

During the auditions, the hopefuls will be asked to perform two prepared pieces from memory. The first will be an unaccompanied traditional song. The youngsters will then perform a song of their choice.

Mr Adams said the choir, which consists of 11 to 18-year-olds, brings young people together and gives them a sense of pride.

He said: “We want to bring a sense of purpose and pride to our young; a sense of comradeship and solidarity.

“And because the choir will be run by passionate and professional adults, we want to bring the generations together in a positive and mutual environment,” he added.

Directed by a leading vocalist with West End experience, the new recruits will be given the opportunity to sing their way to professional stages and CD releases.

Membership to the choir costs £20 per month, excluding clothing and travel costs.

Anyone wishing to audition can register by visiting vocalimpact.org.uk. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.