The deadline to enter a major talent contest for young people is fast approaching.

Youngsters aged 10-18 can audition for the Next Big Thing 2018, but the deadline to apply is on October 11 - with auditions later the same month.

The popular talent contest, now in its seventh year, takes place on February 3, in aid of Junior Achievement Isle of Man.

Finalists will have the opportunity to perform live on the Gaiety Theatre stage.

On top of that, the winner will take home a cash prize of £500, sponsored by the Steam Packet.

Junior Achievement chief executive Sue Cook said: ’Over the years, the Next Big Thing has acquired a tremendous following and revealed some truly inspirational young talent.

’Last year’s winner was Amy Gravestock, only 12 years old then and a gifted singer, and the year before 14-year-old Tabitha Templer took the title when she thrilled the audience with her playing of the electric violin.’

She added: ’We know from past experience there’s a huge pool of outstanding talent in the island and we’re looking for acts of all kinds. Not just singers and dancers, they could be gymnasts, comedians, ventriloquists, or magicians, for example.

’The Next Big Thing is much more than a talent competition, though. It’s a fantastic community event that plays to a packed house and, importantly, gives young artists a confidence-boosting opportunity to showcase their talent to an appreciative and very supportive audience.’

Auditions will take place on October 21 and 22. Applications remain open until October 11. Visit thenextbigthing.im to apply

The runner-up in the contest receives £250, sponsored by Manx Professional and Educational Services Ltd and the third-placed performer will receive a £150 prize sponsored by the Platform Theatre School.

The competition is sponsored by Paragon Recruitment, Swagelok and Energy FM.