THE closing date for entries for Port’s Got Talent is fast approaching.

Mayor of Ellesmere Port Pat Merrick is hosting the event before hanging up her mayoral chain.

The Deputy Mayor of Ellesmere Port Paul Donovan had the idea of staging the event as the finale to the mayoral year.

He will be joined by fellow judges, the mayor, Pat Merrick and the mayoress, Cllr Lynn Clare.

Mayor Pat Merrick joked: “It is unlikely that Simon Cowell can make it and his replacement is likely to be Joshua Sinclair.”

The event will take place on Saturday, May 4, from 7.30pm at the Whitby Sport's and Social Club.

All acts must be over 16 and it costs £5 to enter per act.

Mayor Merrick added: “We ask only that you are born or live in the Port. Please register your act by ringing Rebecca by noon on Friday, April 26 on 01244 977700.

“We hope that we will get lots of performers and loads of support as all the proceeds will go to local groups working with young people, BHF and Cancer research and the Women and Children's unit at the Countess.

“There will be a cash prize for the winning act as well as the possibility of future gigs over the summer.”

On the night it will cost adults £2 and children £1 to attend in the audience.