THE STAGE was set for an array of local performers to showcase their skills as the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust's Dorset's Got Talent competition returned for a fourth year.

A magician, dance groups, a comedian, singers and other musicians all took to the stage in a bid to be crowned the winner of the Dorset Echo backed competition.

The first round of the competition at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park was the auditions stage, with the judges now set to decide which of the acts will go through to the live grand final, which will be held at the same venue on Saturday, March 11.

Matt Smith, fundraising manager for Weldmar said: "Our audition stage is always the start of an exciting competition for us.

"As always, we saw a variety of acts with talented auditionees of all ages.

"The winner of Dorset’s Got Talent will win £500 cash kindly donated by the Hive Beach Cafe, a family holiday at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park and guaranteed performances throughout 2017.

"It’s exciting to know that one of these auditionees will be our 2017 winner."

Out of the acts that performed, there was a dance troupe called D F Beatz, singer Karl Vogts and family duo Lily and Harry who are a granddad and granddaughter entry.

Matt added: “Dorset’s Got Talent is a great platform for any talented individual or group to gain a little bit more experience or exposure.

"Previous winners have gone on to perform in front of thousands of people with some even appearing in front of the judges on Britain’s Got Talent.

"We are excited for the final and hope to have a large audience to help crown our winner."

Members of the public are being urged to come and support the acts and the charity at the grand final on Saturday, March 11 at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park.

Ticket, which cost £10 for adults with a discount for children, are available by calling 01305 261800 or by visiting weld-hospice.org.uk/talent

As well as the Dorset Echo, the Dorset's Got Talent 2017 competition is also being supported by Hive Beach Cafe and Freshwater Beach Holiday Park with all funds raised going to support Weldmar's valuable work.