THE penultimate heat of this year's Pub Idol competition proved to be the toughest yet.

On Monday, scores of supporters flocked to The Royal Hotel in Doncaster Road, Scunthorpe, to watch eight more contestants battle it out for a place in the grand final.

Compere Ian McLane said the talent showcased at the event was outstanding.

He said: "Monday evening was absolutely fantastic – so many people came to support the event it became standing room only.

"This was, without a shadow of a doubt, the toughest heat so far.

"Eight brilliant contestants took to the stage and everyone of them sang their hearts out. It was a shame they could not all go through to the final."

Ian said the competition continued to reach new heights every week.

He said: "We have never had a bad crowd, but the competition seems to be getting better and better.

"We have a number of Pub Idol groupies who have followed the competition from the beginning, which is brilliant. They help create a wonderful atmosphere."

Michelle Wheelwright, 27, of Baldwin Avenue in Scunthorpe, stormed into the final after wowing judges with her renditions of Black Velvet, by Alannah Myles, and There You'll Be, by Faith Hill.

Michelle, landlady of The Crown in Ashby, was delighted with the result.

She said: "I was nervous before I went on stage but the crowd were really supportive and I soon got into it.

"I have never done anything like this before, but I think Pub Idol is a brilliant competition.

"I love singing and I entered to get more experience of performing on stage."

Eighteen year-old Emily Childs, of College Close, Alkborough, took second place after her magnificent renditions of I Don't Know How To Love Him, from Jesus Christ Superstar, and On My Own, from Les Miserables. She said: "I really enjoyed it and I was so pleased when the judged said my name.

"I love musicals – I will be going to Newcastle University in September to study musical theatre.

"My mum actually entered me in the competition.

"I thought it would be a great way to boost my confidence.

"My idol is Ruthie Henshall – she is an amazing singer and I would love to do the things that she has."

Next week's heat will take place on Monday at The Black Beauty pub in Bottesford.

A limited number of tickets are still available for the grand final, which will be held at Reeds Hotel in Barton-Upon-Humber on Monday, September 14.

Tickets are available from the Scunthorpe Telegraph in Park Square, Laneham Street.