BBC News Online was there to see what all the fuss was about, along with thousands of youngsters hoping to become pop stars.

The pop wannabes kept their spirits up by singing while they waited

The event attracted members of the press in droves

This singer was keen to wam up his vocal chords before the selection

Inside the gates, people were herded into queues by the security guards

Selection based on looks was swift

Inside, the judges - including the group's members - heard each person sing

Jumping for joy because she had the right looks for the group

The lucky few were presented with this ticket