A NATIONAL singing competition is bringing its search to find the UK’s best singer, duo, vocal group or rapper to Bournemouth.

Open Mic UK is being brought by Future Music who are responsible for bringing such acts as Birdy, Lucy Spraggan and Jahmene Douglas, pictured, to our attention.

More than 12,000 people are expected to take part in the audition stage, which comes to Pavilion Dance on September 15.

Artists can perform either covers or original material and will be invited to a live audition in front of a music industry judging panel.

Successful acts will go on to perform in live regional showcases with a Grand National Final held at the O2 in London.