A CWMBRAN-based youth choir is one of the entries hoping to add sparkle to Newport¹s Christmas lights switch-on.

Newport city council, along with the Argus and Red Dragon FM, is looking for a choir to take pride of place at this year¹s switch-on event on November 22.

The winning choir will get to switch on the festive lights and perform to thousands of people.

Nidus Children¹s Choir, which has 26 members aged eight to 13-years-old is one of the latest entrants.

The competition is open to groups from all over Gwent and can be established groups or one put together for the event.

There is no age limit, groups can have up to 30 singers.

The city centre Christmas festivities kick-off at 12pm on November 22 with live music, dance, markets and street entertainment. The lights will be switched on at 5pm.

Anyone interested in entering should send a sound file (Mp3) and e-mail it via the link below.

Alternatively, send a DVD or CD of your choir performing, marked Search for Christmas Stars to Sue Madden, Newsroom, South Wales Argus, Cardiff Road, Maesglas, Newport, NP20 3QN, by October 23.

A shortlist will be drawn up, those successful will audition before a panel of judges in early November.

For more information contact the Newport city centre management team on 01633 263117.