BEXFACTOR partner Paul Pacifico talks about the new competition to find new musical talent in Bexley borough.

Mr Pacifico spoke to News Shopper at the first of the open auditions, held at Townley Grammar School in Bexleyheath on March 1.

The contest is open to anyone aged between 14 and 25 who lives or goes to school or college in the borough, and includes every ability and musical style, from classical to rap.

As well the open auditions this month, professional talent scouts will watch artists perform at their gigs and, as they progress through the rounds, contestants will be offered “boot camps” to build on their musical skills.

There will also be mentoring by acclaimed musical artists.

Bexley promises there will be no negative feedback or “bullying judges” and those who do not go any further will get information about the music services available to them in the borough.

About 60 successful competitors will be chosen from the auditions and invited to separate boot camps to build on their musical skills and work towards an accredited musical qualification.

Further audtions are happening at Erith School, Avenue Road, Erith, on March 21 from 12pm to 5pm and at Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School, Hurst Road, Sidcup, on March 23 from 4pm to 9pm.