Church's ex-manager seeks star

Joanthan Shalit and Charlotte met President Clinton

The former manager of teenage singing star Charlotte Church is hunting for a new child musical talent.

Jonathan Shalit, who was sacked by Charlotte's mother Maria in January, is now auditioning schoolboys in a bid to find a future singing sensation.

Last month, Mr Shalit settled his dispute with Charlotte's parents in an out-of-court deal worth around £2m.

Jonathin Shalit settled his dispute for £2m

At the time, he said the young soprano was unique.

"I don't think anyone else in the world will ever discover another Charlotte Church," he said.

But now the West End impresario is looking for a young male talent to take her place and set out on the road to success.

"Having managed and guided Charlotte to the fantastic achievements her talent has brought her, I would love to do the same for a young boy singer.

"I know the talent is out there somewhere, probably unrecognised - just as Charlotte was before I heard her sing, he added.

"Whoever I will take on will have the same chance as Charlotte had of succeeding.

"It will be lots of fun for the singer and his family and, of course, a lot of hard work for us all."

At first, Mr Shalit wrote to all 44 of Britain's choir schools, asking them to recommend young male talent between the ages of nine and 11.

Charlotte has found fame and fortune worldwide

The response was so great that he decided to hold auditions, the first of which will be held in London on Saturday.

Scores of youngsters will compete in a series of auditions which will be held in London at the home of experienced musical director Annette Battam.

All the parents of the hopefuls have been consulted and have provided their written consent for the auditions.