A PUB in Chester-le-Street is staging the local final of a national talent contest.

Chicago Rock Cafe will host 12 singers competing in the final of Rock Idol as they bid to represent the town at the latter stages of the competition.

About 100 performers have entered and been whittled down to a dozen over a month of heats at the venue.

The local final of Rock Idol will take place next Monday, when two singers will be chosen for the regional final later in the spring.

It provides a stepping stone to the national final where the top prize includes £2,000 in cash, as well as the chance to cut a CD, take a tour of venues and the opportunity to work with professional singing coaches.

Mark Warrilow, manager of Chicago Rock Cafe, said the standard of competitors had been impressive.

He said: "There has been such a high-class throughout our month of heats, which means we have a great line-up for the local final.

"The judges on the night are going to have a tough job as we look to find two performers to represent Chester-le-Street in the regional and national finals."