Bands from across Shropshire and Mid Wales will soon be urged to vie for honours in a regionwide Battle of the Bands contest.

The Shropshire Star is teaming up with bosses at Shrewsbury’s new Theatre Severn, local promoters and other music industry organisations to promote the competition. 

And bands will also be given the opportunity to reach more than 100,000 people from across the region by posting their music on a soon-to-be-launched online music site.

The Shropshire Star is preparing to improve and increase its music coverage and will be able to host music and videos from bands and solo artists in the region.

Shropshire Star music critic Andy Richardson, who is organising the Battle of the Bands, said: “We’re delighted to be running the Battle of the Bands for a second year. And we’re thrilled to be teaming up with Theatre Severn. It’s an incredible new venue that is perfect for this competition.

“Last year’s inaugural contest was a great success with about 50 performers participating. This year we want to make sure we get as many bands and solo artists as possible.

“There’ll be an opportunity for people to vote for their favourites in an online poll and we’ll be announcing more details soon.”

He added: “Another piece of news that’s really exciting for local bands is our plans for a new online site. Part of it will be dedicated to local music, so that people can simply log on and find out all there is to know about the local scene. We want to feature local bands, local venues, local promoters, local shops and anyone else involved in music in Shropshire and Mid Wales.”

The Battle of the Bands and the Shropshire Star’s new website will be launched soon, but bands can register now. Performers who want to feature on the new online site can send mp3s, videos, photos, biographies and gig news to Andy Richardson by e-mailing arichardson@shropshirestar.co.uk or call (01952) 241431 for further details.

By Carl Jones