Young people with a knack for singing in a large group are invited to join the Jack Petchey Glee Club Challenge.

The UK’s biggest Glee club competition is recruiting 60 groups across London and Essex to get involved in this year’s competition, which will see 11 to 25 year-olds perform in groups from 10 to 30 people.

Those of any standard are welcome to sign up, whether they are already involved in musical theatre, dance, singing or are just a group of friends who want to try something new.

Before taking to the stage in regional finals in January, free workshops led by professional performers will put fledgling groups through their paces in numerous venues in December.

Last year’s winners of the competition RE:VERB were a group from Stanford-le-Hope aged 11 to 18 years-old.

Amongst their number was singer and guitarist Ruti Olajugbagbe, who has since gone on to be crowned the winner of the Voice UK 2018 as part of Team Tom.

Patrons of the Jack Petchey Glee Club Challenge include Graham Norton and stage and TV star John Partridge.

Mr Partridge said: “It is an honour to be a part of an event which not only celebrates young people but actively encourages and helps them develop. I have been associated with The Glee Club Challenge for five years and it is without doubt one of the highlights in my calendar.

"Every year I am amazed at the standard, the diversity of talent, the creativity and discipline that each group shows. Choreography and vocals worthy of any TV talent show or West End stage."

To find out more and to sign up, go to www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk/glee-club-challenge-0