Scarborough band contest returns

By Joel James BBC Blast Reporter, BBC York & North Yorkshire

Winners Mum Locked In Castle went on to support Feeder

The contest that last year saw the winning band go on to support Feeder in February makes a welcome return to Scarborough's Spa complex.

In recent years talent contests have dominated our TV screens. Since then countless similar, smaller competitions have popped up everywhere, most offering studio time or a cash prize.

Scarborough's Battle of the Sands II has a much more tempting offer. The winning band is guaranteed a chance to support a headline act in a gig in the not-so-distant future, so it's no wonder that competition is fierce.

Wendy Clews is the festival organiser: "It promises to be a fantastic event and something very special to be involved in."

Not only is this a great opportunity for one act to have the experience of a lifetime but it will also be a chance to hear some talented local musicians battle it out, giving their best performances.

If that isn't enough, the judging panel will be made up of people from the local arts scene, so this battle really ticks all the boxes for promoting local music.

Successful bands will battle it out at Scarborough's Spa Complex

Applicants were required to submit their music on CD, along with an application form, to even have a chance to compete. Successful bands will battle it out at Scarborough's Spa complex on 10 October. The winning band will then support a top act in early 2010.

Following last year's success, where winners Mum Locked in Castle went on to support Feeder, Battle of the Sands II is definitely one to watch. There's the promise of new and less well-known Yorkshire performers showcasing their talent.

Battle of the Sands is working with Coastival, Scarborough's new arts festival group, who will be helping organise the final concert.