ASPIRING young pop stars took to the stage for a singing contest on a Darlington estate.

The Stars in their Eyes-style competition was organised by Firthmoor and District Community Association and held in the estate's new community centre, Maidendale House.

It was won by Maegan Ashley, nine, and Melissa Clark, 11, who sang Christina Aguilera's hit Beautiful.

City and Northern, developers of Morton Palms Business Park, donated money for microphones, amplifiers, costumes and prizes.

Organiser Paula Stainthorpe said: "We service one of the most disadvantaged areas of Darlington, and events like this offer a real morale boost to the young people and their families.

"It was a really exciting evening for everybody that took part, and City and Northern's donation helped to make the event a great success."

Published: 15/05/2004