THIS talented youngster is preparing to sing his way to success.
Ryan Cregan, 12, of Everton Road, South Shore, beat thousands of other young hopefuls to get through to the regional finals of Idol 2008 – a competition for both singers and dancers.
His mum Tracey discovered her son's talent when he sang to cheer her up.
She said: "Our house on Orchard Avenue burnt down in 2003. I was so upset, crying every day. Ryan used to sing to me to cheer me up. I thought 'he's not got a bad little voice' so I enrolled him with Blackpool Aztex Theatre School. He loves it."
Ryan, a pupil at Highfield Humanities College, has also reached the semi-finals of the Daily Star's Search for a Star competition which is held on North Pier.
He said: "I prefer singing ballads and war melodies. I really like bands like Westlife. I'm into acting and singing, it's a really good hobby. I'd like to be famous one day!"
Ryan will have three minutes to impress judges at the Idol 2008 regional final show at The Willows, in Salford, on Sunday September 14.
If successful, he will then be given the chance to compete in the national final, which was broadcast by ITV last year.
The winner of Idol 2008 in the under 18s category will be given a chance to record their own album and take part in a UK tour.