Our Face of the Future hopefuls. From left: Anthony Fletcher, from Knowbury; Tim Hartland, from Newport; Jamie Thomas, from Telford; Ross Broderick, from Longdon-on-Tern; and John Cassidy, from Trench

The boys have now stepped up to take on the girls to be named the Face of the Future 2010 with the first rush of entries from Shropshire’s own likely lads.

For the first time this year a female and a male winner will be announced on New Year’s day after a search across the county for future catwalk stars, who will also help promote Telford Shopping Centre.

In a new battle of the sexes the hunt is on for 10 finalists – five boys and five girls – who will take part in a glamorous eveningwear photoshoot in the countdown to Christmas.

After an initial lack of entries from the male of the species, the boys are now proving they have what it takes to be the county’s next big style stars and to carry out a series of promotional appearances for Telford Shopping Centre.

Among those who are in the running for the title are Jamie Thomas, from Telford, who has also nominated his girlfriend, Rachel Steer.

“We have shared numerous great memories together,” said Jamie, who added that they would both relish the opportunity to represent Shropshire as the Face of the Future.

Also hoping to make it to the final five is 23-year-old Ross Broderick, from Longdon-on-Tern.

He said he has lived in Telford since he was four years old.

The entries also include Tim Hartland, 21, from Newport, and Anthony Fletcher, 31, from Knowbury near Ludlow, who are both eager to promote Telford and the county. John Cassidy, 35, from Trench has been nominated by his girlfriend Ann Moore,who believes he has what it takes to win.

But entries are still needed with only just over a week until the judging starts to find our 10 finalists.

Those who wish to be in with a chance to win should write and tell us why they would be the best Face of the Future candidate or nominate those you think are future style stars.

Send your entry with name, address, age and a daytime telephone number together with a recent photograph to Face of the Future 2010, Shropshire Star, Ketley, Telford, TF1 5HU, alternatively e-mail your entry to tosullivan@shropshire star.co.uk

Those who make it to the Final of the competition must be available on December 16 to take part in the eveningwear photoshoot.

By Tracey O’Sullivan