Four of the best unsigned bands in Shropshire and Mid Wales fought for glory during the first of two finals in the Shropshire Star’s £6,000 Battle of the Bands.

Fakie 180, Pocket Rocket, Deco and The Knights played in the Best of the Rest showcase last night at The Buttermarket, in Shrewsbury.

Battle of the Bands spokesman James Shaw said the standard was very high. He said: “Everyone was very impressed by the bands who played.

“It was a great night and we’ve a lot to look forward to at this Sunday’s final, from 7pm to 10.30pm at The Buttermarket.”

Fakie 180 kicked off the event with an energetic indie-rock set of original songs and covers.

Telford rock band Pocket Rocket then played a 25-minute set, mixing jazz, pop and adult rock songs.

Youthful Shrewsbury duo Deco impressed with their set of cutting edge songs and accomplished trio The Knights ended the evening in style with a raucous and upbeat slot.

Rob Mulliner, whose company, Salop Music Centre, is the event’s principal sponsor, said: “It was a very good gig.”

Sound engineer Gair Davies, whose company Soundscape Studios is also a sponsor, said: “We’re pleased to showcase new talent.”

The grand final will see Small Time Crooks, Madison, Fight The Bear, Dezima and Enter/Exit play for a share of a £6,000 prize pool.

Competition sponsors:

Shropshire Music Centre – the main sponsors, offering £3,000 of band equipment www.salopmusic.co.uk

Telford FM -supporting and highlighting the entrants www.telfordfm.co.uk

A Wolf at Your Door Records – offering 100 demo discs and advice www.wolfatyourdoor.com

Soundscape Studios – offering four hours studio time http://soundscape-studios.co.uk

The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury – venue for the Battle Of The Bands finals www.buttermarket.com