A PUB talent contest which helped launch York singer Beth McCarthy has held the first round of this year's heats, writes Kris McGee.

The Ainsty’s Got Talent competition, in which York teenager Beth was a runner-up last year before appearing on BBC's The Voice, was opened at the Ainsty pub in York by Evie Jackson, with the European Champion of Contemporary Dance.

Co-organiser Caroline Grant, of Le-Grande Event Management, praised the “high standard of people who performed” in a variety of acts from musicians to magicians. 

The first round was won by singer Terri-Ann Prendergast, from Wakefield, who Caroline described as “outstanding” while Grace Holroyd, who came second, was also highly commended.

Friday was the first of seven heats - in the eighth week, on June 13, the runners-up from previous weeks will compete for a wildcard place amongst the finalists.

In the final on June 20 performers will compete for a £600 prize, as well as supporting the headline act at both the Apollo Festival and the Ainsty Festival.

The winner will also have their own concert at The Basement in York, supported by the wildcard winner.