Young music bands from and around Maldon are being urged to tune up for stardom when the local heat of the Keep It Live contest takes place next month.

The event which was previously known as the Essex County Bands Contest has been re-launched and the local heat will take place at Maldon Town Hall on Sunday July 16. It has been co-ordinated by Maldon Youth Council.

Members are seeking young bands with members aged under 25 and the the band that makes it through to the Essex final gets the chance to spend several days in a recording studio making a CD and video.

There will be a full publicity pack prepared including photo-shoot, band profile and a support slot at a major Essex gig.

Co-organiser Jeff Merrifield said: "This is a fine prize indeed and should give the winning band a leg up in the right direction."

The contest is open to all band styles whether rock, garage, boy bands, heavy metal or girl groups.

The grand final will be in Harlow Town Park on Sunday August 13.

To take part in the Maldon heat contact Robert Ilett, chairman of Maldon Youth Council on 01621 840227.

A maximum number of eight bands will be allowed to enter the heat and the closing date for applications in June 28.

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