Pop wannabes have gathered to promote a series of public performances to be held at The Talk club, Oak Street, running on Sundays until October 23.

Pop wannabes gathered yesterday as they prepare to go head to head in the latest talent-spotting competition.

Based on television shows such as X-Factor and Pop Idol, the X-Style Factor aims to offer anyone living within East Anglia the chance to reach for the stars.

Hundreds of people from Norfolk and Suffolk entered the contest - which offers a £500 cash prize and the chance to record a CD - and they have now been whittled down to an elite 16.

Yesterday, they appeared at the Forum in Norwich to promote a series of public performances to be held at The Talk club, Oak Street, starting on Sunday.

Contestant Matthew May, from Norwich, now works in sales and marketing but, after eight years singing on cruise ships, hopes to get a break in the music industry.

He said: "I have been along to programmes like the X-Factor but didn't get anywhere. They're looking for a very specific person and the opportunities are limited.

"This competition is great as it focuses on East Anglia where there is a lot of talent."

Fellow contestant Sam Wellham, 18, who now stacks shelves at Asda, said: "I've always tried to sing as much as possible, mainly in karaoke competitions.

"I've never performed in front of a proper crowd before and this competition is a great chance to do that.

"Also, as a group we've become great friends so, whatever happens, some-thing positive has come out of it."

Performances take place from 7pm on October 2, 9 and 16 with the final on October 23.

Tickets will be available on the door at £5, or £7 for the final.