A FORMER X Factor contestant will go from the stage to behind the judging table to cast her over potential stars of the future.

Thirteen acts, all aged under 16, have been chosen to appear in the final of Talent at the Towngate on, February 12, where the winner will be signed up by talent agency All Starz Productions.

Singers, dancers, musicians and a magician will perform in front of Charley Bird, from Langdon Hills, whomade it into the live finals of X Factor in 2011 as one half of 2 Shoes.

Mayor of Basildon Mo Larkin, Pam Brown, from event sponsors the Swan Foundation, and Charley’s sister Danielle Bird, who also tried out for X Factor, will be on the judging panel too.

The event has been produced by 15-year-old DJ and aspiring TV presenter Harry Carnaby of Delmar Gardens, Runwell.

He has been working on the show for almost a year, supported by a grant from the Swan Foundation.

Harry, who is a pupil at St John’s School, Billericay, said the final will have something for everyone. He said: “It is going to be so much fun. It has been so hard producing this show as there is so much talent – this is going to be an amazing competition.”

Young people from the area have been involved in all aspects of the production, and will be supporting the Towngate Theatre production crew with the sound, lighting, stage effects, recording and photography on the night.

Drummer Josh Sampson, who will be performing in the show, said: “I can’t wait for the live show – it’s the biggest one I have taken part in.

“I will be drumming on my new kit that I got for Christmas too, so I am even more excited!”

The Swan Foundation, which is managed and supported by Swan Housing Group, works to maximise employability and employment among local people, encouraging participation in activities that promote wellbeing and community spirit in the area.

Tickets, which cost £10 for adults and £5 for children, are available from the Towngate Theatre.

Call the box office on 01268 465465 or visit www.towngatetheatre.co.uk to book and for details.