ARE you the next Olly Murs? Do you and your friends have ambitions to be as big as Little Mix? Then this could be your chance to shine.

The Milford Mercury is mounting a major search for singers and performers from across the county to take part in a talent competition that could put you on the road to stardom.

And just as importantly, the event will be raising money for one of Pembrokeshire's most valued charitable causes – the Paul Sartori Foundation which provides respite care for thousands of people locally.

That Reminds Me author Jeff Dunn, the man behind the idea, said: "I have decided for 2017 to resurrect the incredibly popular Milford Mercury talent contest, which over the years raised more than £10,000 for the Paul Sartori Foundation."

West End star Connie Fisher, who won first place in a Merc talent show as a teenager, said the experience helped her "grow in confidence".

The singer, who became a household name after winning the role of Maria in The Sound of Music, said performing locally helped spur her on to new challenges.

"The Mercury talent show was a brilliant opportunity for me to sing popular music, which was something I wasn’t that confident doing at that time.

"It's always a brave thing to perform on stage, but it’s a wonderful chance to say 'here I am', and everyone should go for it."

She added: "Everyone will be nervous, but ultimately the audience want to hear you - so if you get a chance you should grab it with both hands."

Mary-Jayne Rees, whose lively vocals wowed the judges in 2002, said: "I know if it wasn't for the competition, I would not have followed my dream and made a career from singing."

Known as the 'little lady with big voice', Mary-Jayne has since performed at venues in Spain, Canada and the Caribbean.

Added Jeff: "I hope that everyone who has supported me, and Paul Sartori, by buying my books over the last few years, will get behind this.

"If things go as well as we hope there will be fantastic fun, exciting entertainment, and irresistable enjoyment to be had, both by those who take part and also those who like variety.

"And all in the name of such a worthy local charity."

Milford Mercury editor Steve Adams said: “We are absolutely delighted to be involved in the return of the Milford Mercury charity talent show.

“The contests proved a huge success in the past and were a stepping stone for the likes of Connie Fisher and others to fulfil their dreams of becoming a star.

“We know Milford Haven and the rest of Pembrokeshire is brimming with undiscovered talent and we cannot wait to put them in the spotlight.

“Raising funds for the Paul Sartori Foundation makes the contest all the more worthwhile.

“We hope everyone will take part – either on stage or by showing their support and cheering on the talent.”

  • The show will be open to all ages and types of performer, from singers and dancers to magicians and comedians.

There will be cash prizes on offer, with live shows set to take place this autumn.

Entry is free, and to register your interest email your contact details to jsa@milfordmercury.co.uk, marking your email Mercury Talent Show 2017.