A HOTEL owned by a St Helens businessman is holding an X Factor style competition, complete with celebrity judging panel and a £10,000 prize fund.

The iconic Bold Hotel on Southport's Lord Street was refurbished and re-opened in March by Rainford-based Andrew Mikhail, who also runs the Eccleston Arms Bar and Grill on Prescot Road.

Running on Fridays over 12 weeks and dubbed The Bold Factor, the contest aims to keep the Merseyside area on the talent and entertainment map.

A spokesperson for Bold Hotel said: "Not only will there be a massive prize fund of £10,000 for the winner, there'll be celebrity judges and themed evenings so if you know anyone who belongs on the stage and would like to see their name in lights secure an audition spot, then watch this space."

The final will be held in mid-December - just in time for Christmas, with the first auditions planned for September 9.

Talented individuals or groups are asked to email boldfactor@boldhotel.com for further information and an audition date.

The Bold Hotel underwent a multi-million-pound, Grand Designs-style redesign and boasts a modern interior with boutique bedrooms and a Mediterranean menu.