Three brothers from Braintree are hoping to become Essex's latest musical success story with the release of their first single next month.

Called Next of Kin, Nathan Bass, 18, and brothers Mark, 15, and Kieran, 13, are poised for the big time after being taken on by the man who launched the Spice Girls to global stardom.

The former Notley High School pupils are concentrating on their pop careers full time, but have recruited a private tutor so they don't fall behind on their studies.

"It's come as a surprise because when we were at school we didn't get that much attention but now we're getting onto the TV and stuff," said Kieran.

"I do miss hanging around with my friends in Braintree," said Nathan. "We just want to be as big as we can."

Former Young Guitarist of the Year, Mark said he was enjoying working on the first album, due to be released in the summer.

The boys recently appeared on The Big Breakfast and feature in the latest edition of Smash Hits magazine.

Their single, 24 Hours From You, is out on Universal Records on February 8.

Next of Kin, Kieran, Nathan and Mark Bass.

Picture: SIMON FOWLER

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