TUNE up that guitar, set up those drums — the major musical event in Okehampton's calendar is being prepared.

Battle of the Bands organiser Richard Appleby says he is aiming to make it a vintage year for the event as it moves into its seventh season.

The call is going out for groups and bands to sign up for this year's competition.

Bands need 20 minutes of material, which can be of any musical style.

Last year the event highlighted some fabulous local bands and artists, with Jonny Black, The Half Price Waffles, Go Green Monkey, Sunshine Getaway, The Sam Dowden Band, The Adventures of . . . and eventual winners, The Sum Of, who all set new standards of quality, originality and great entertainment.

Festival-goers were also treated to some classic rocking in Simmons Park with special guest headliners Staid as Quo.

Richard Appleby said this year would be even better: 'I have had phenomenal support from local councils and charitable organisations in the past.

'This year Okehampton Town Council, West Devon Borough Council, Okehampton Rotary Club, Round Table, Okehampton Lions Club, Okehampton Masons, the local police and other volunteers, have all committed extra time and manpower to help raise this very popular diary event to the next level.'

Richard has also promised a fantastic special guest band — the Animals headlined back in 2006.

He is keen to include as wide a variety of entertainment as possible — entrants of all ages, ability and musical background are welcome.

'It doesn't matter if you have years of experience or whether this is your first ever gig – once you are on that stage it is a completely level playing field.

'Live entertainment is real and immediate and our judges are looking for that little bit of magic, which only live music can deliver.'

This year one of the top prizes includes two recording sessions with Aardvark Studios in Sourton.

Richard said: 'We want to encourage a wider range of audience and the big difference this year is we have so much more support.

'The event is being spearheaded by Okehampton Town Council, who are taking on various roles like promoting the website.

'We are encouraging all bands to put up videos, links and demo tunes, etc, which can be fed into the site.

'It's a way of exchanging gigs and if bands want to get in touch they can support each other and also trade gigs.

'This applies to all the bands from previous years who would like to hook up and take part in that networking service.'

The three heats will be held in the Charter Hall on Thursday, July 22, Thursday, July 29 and Thursday, August 5.

The grand final will be in Simmons Park on Saturday, August 14. Charities and trade stalls will be welcome at the final.

Applicants are advised to register as soon as possible, as all 24 available spots will be offered on a first come first served basis.

Richard is looking for more prizes and people to sponsor the event. He can be contacted on 01837 811172.