Most of us will expect to hear a chorus of happy birthday when we turn a year older.

But the Jack Petchey Foundation is calling for young songwriters to come up with something a bit more original to celebrate its 15th birthday.

Jack Petchey CBE, who turned 89 last Friday, said: “Since setting up the Foundation 15 years ago, I have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm, dedication and achievements of so many young people.

“The 15th Anniversary Anthem gives them the chance to write a song that really represents all of these qualities, and I can’t wait to see what they come up with.”

The winner of the competition will record their song in a top London studio with the help of award-winning composer Thomas Hewitt Jones, an experienced producer and team of industry professionals.

They will also perform their song at the Jack Petchey Foundation’s festival of youth next spring.

The celebration event will commemorate 15 years of recognising and celebrating the achievements of young people in a showcase, featuring performances from the charity’s various programmes including Step into Dance, Jack Petchey’s Glee Club Challenge, the Speak Out Challenge and Panathlon.

The anthem can be from any genre, by a group or an individual, and this year’s themes are inspiration and achievement.

The song must include instrumental accompaniment and strong lyrics, and the contest is open to all 11 to 25-year-olds in the Uk.

Eight finalists will be selected for a mandatory boot camp with industry professionals to offer guidance and advice on song-writing, performance and musicianship.

The groups will then re-record their songs, taking on-board the feedback from the boot camp.

Finally, the top four entries will face a public vote via YouTube and judging from a panel of experts.

The closing date for entries is Friday August 11.

For the full terms and conditions and details on how to enter, visit www.15thanniversaryanthem.co.uk.

Last year, Collier Row teenager Chris Hatwell won the contest after penning The Hero Within.

The song, featuring vocals from Amanda Ward, will be released later this year.