Reality show producers search for a star in their 60s

Holly Matthews said Sent To Coventry would be a positive experience for the city.

A PENSIONER could become the star of new reality TV show Sent to Coventry after bosses revealed they are on the look out for a character over 60.

Every hopeful at Friday’s auditions will be asked if they know of any elderly people who could fit into the show.

Actress Holly Matthews, who is heading up casting at the S7ven nightclub, told the Observer they were looking for a typical city pensioner.

“We want someone who likes to rant, has an opinion on things and good stories to tell,” she said.

“We’ll be asking everyone if they know anyone because they may not want to go to auditions themselves - but you never know!”

Successful show The Only Way Is Essex has its own ageing star in Nanny Pat - the grandmother of main characters Mark and Jessica Wright - who is known for her cooking skills and witty one liners.

Speaking ahead of the audition, Holly urged hopefuls to just be themselves.

“It will be a five-minute chat with us where we ask about background, social life and whether they have any relatives or friends at the audition.

“We’ll also ask for their opinions on certain things and ask questions which will give us a good idea of what they’re about. It will be informal - no juggling or showing off talents like the X Factor.

“I’ll know straight away whether there should be a second conversation.”

A 15-minute pilot will be filmed just weeks after auditions are over.

Holly added: “The pilot will be a really small show and we need to get a lot in that - the genre, city and what sets it apart from other shows.

“People have flagged themselves up - some you’ll know and some you won’t - but they will have to fit into this format and cast.”

Editor's comment:

"Auditions for the reality TV show Sent To Coventry are held this weekend.

"There has been much talk in recent weeks about the benefits of this programme to the city’s image. Well, those lucky enough to be chosen to take part have a real opportunity to influence outside perceptions of the people who live and work here.

"For anyone not familiar with previous shows of this nature, The Only Way Is Essex and Made In Chelsea, they seem to want to focus on stereotypes.

"It remain uncertain whether Sent To Coventry will ever make it onto out television screens, but if it does let’s put out a positive image of this city for generations to come rather than play up to the cameras for your 15 minutes of fame."

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