HOPEFUL bands can now enter the second Okehampton Battle of the Bands competition for their chance to thrill a big live audience. Last year?s competition was a great success, and was over-subscribed with applications, so don?t delay, as places will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The Battle of the Bands heats will be held in the Charter Hall, on Thursday, July 21, July 28 and August 4. This year, the grand final will be an open-air spectacular held on Saturday, August 13, in Simmons Park. Organiser Richard Appleby, who owns Millennium Music in the Arcade, Okehampton, said to ensure as many new bands as possible were given the chance to perform, those who took part in last year?s event will not be eligible to enter this year. He said PA, microphones and monitors will all be supplied. Organiser Richard Appleby, said prizes would include a day in a recording studio, musical instruments and specialist vocal or other musical training from the Wren Trust. Richard said: ?We are not auditioning anybody, that gave the competition its edge last year, because there were bands who had lots of experience and there were people who had formed groups specially for the contest and were playing their first ever gig.? Richard added: ?I am hoping there will be an even wider range of styles this time. Where are the reggae bands, or how about some soul, blues or folk music?? l Completed forms should be sent to: Millennium Music, 16 The Arcade, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 1EX. For more information, telephone 01837 659249.