THE Wirral festival of music, speech and drama is preparing to celebrate its 70th anniversary and organisers need you.

Since 1949, it has given amateur performers of all ages an opportunity to showcase their talents.

Entries are now open for people to take part in what promises to be 'a wonderful celebration of the performing arts'.

The festival runs over two weekends in March, with speech and drama on March 15-16 and music on March 22-23.

All performances are open to the public.

Caitlin Edwards, chair of the Wirral Festival committee told the Globe: "The standard across music, speech and drama is often phenomenal.

"Many members of the audience have commented on the quality of many of the performances and have been overwhelmed by the talent on display."

The deadline for entries is January 31.

Entry is open to adults and children aged six and over from Wirral and beyond.

More information on the categories and how to enter are now available on www.wirralfestival.co.uk.

Originally called the Bromborough Festival, the event has attracted hundreds of entries each year from amateur musicians, singers, choirs, orchestras, speakers and actors, who are given the chance to perform in a supportive environment.

Caitlin Edwards continued: "I feel it is so important to encourage participation in the arts amongst adults and young people.

"It helps with confidence building and being able to act, sing or play a musical instrument gives so much pleasure to the individual and those who come and watch the performances."

As well as taking part as a performer, the committee is also looking for new members to join them and help support the festival during its 70th year and ensure that it continues to flourish for many years to come.