TEN Zero One, the Tavistock rock band which has made it to the grand finals of a prestigious national music competition, is appealing to Times readers to get busy with their mobiles, ahead of this weekend's O2 arena performance.

The young band heads to London tomorrow (Friday) for the biggest performance of their budding career, as they play to win the final of the Live and Unsigned contest.

The Tavistock College musicians, aged between 12 and 14, have beaten off stiff competition from thousands of much older and more experienced performers from all over the country.

But in addition to musical talent, they also need to demonstrate public support — and this is where Times readers can help.

Kathryn Williams, mother of band member Max, said: 'Ten Zero One needs to get as much support for them in the form of voting to give them the best chance of winning the overall competition.  

'Supporters of the band can have a chance to vote even if they can't get to the 02 by texting 'unsigned11' to 84222.  Texts do cost £1, but by voting it can help ensure that the band's public vote make the difference.  

'To win overall, the band must be in the top three of the judges vote, after which the public vote will also be taken into account.'

Kathryn said the boys were 'very excited' about performing at the O2, at such a big event.

'They've done so well just to get there, even if they don't win, the experience is amazing.

'Apparently last year eight bands got signed to labels because there are so many industry people there, but whatever happens, they will have a great time.

'I know the nerves are going to be incredible, but once the adrenaline kicks in, they always seem to pull it out of the bag.'

Kathryn said voting by text could take place up until the end of the finals at 8pm on Saturday, July 23. Votes after this time will not count and texts will still cost £1.

'It would be brilliant if we could get the town behind them and vote,' said Kathryn.