Guitarist to judge new talent contest

Staffordshire has been chosen to pilot a talent awards project aimed at promoting the Crimestoppers scheme among the younger generation.

The idea is the brainchild of Crimestoppers worker Doug Blanks and the competition, being run in conjunction with schools across the county, could be rolled out nationwide next year if it is a success.

Guitarist Derek Holt, formerly of the Stafford-based Climax Blues Band, will be one of the judges in the music section and says he is delighted to be involved.

"There are so many confusing messages sent out to children these days and so many ways that they can be led astray. It's a different world to when we were kids," he added.

The Crimestoppers Talents Awards has been launched to find new ways of getting the Crimestoppers message across to the younger generation "in a modern 21st century way".

It challenges pupils aged between five and 18 to come up with ideas through music, dance, drama, videos, creative writing, eye-catching posters or any other initiative, including text messaging or even a catchy iPod tune.

Doug Blanks said: "This is an ideal opportunity for all our pupils to get involved in a scheme which will help spread the Crimestoppers message.

"There are so many people who think they know what Crimestoppers is all about, but don't really understand how it works.

"The Crimestoppers Talent Awards is being pioneered in Staffordshire and hopefully will next year be rolled out nationwide and also include older students at colleges and universities".

Schools wanting to be involved have until May 19 to register by simply sending their details to crimestoppersoscars@hotmail.co.uk

The successful nominees will be announced in November and the awards will be presented at a glittering 'Oscars' style ceremony.