OKEHAMPTON'S Battle of the Bands competition, which looked at risk of ending just a few months ago, has announced the second of its two headline acts for the finale to the 2015 contest, the Party in the Park.

The competition had been at risk of folding after organisers Chris Hodgson and Ben Boulton, who had given countless hours of their own time to organise the contest, decided to step down. Their hope that people would come forward to take over the running of the event looked futile after an initial appeal proved unsuccessful.

But following a meeting in October, a new chairman and secretary were appointed with more committee members joining in November.

Organisers have also confirmed that the August show will be hosted by Professor Elemental, an award winning 'steampunk musician' who has had regular appearances across the globe at events like Glastonbury Festival, San Diego Comic Con, Bestival and the Canadian Steam Expo.

The team announced in December that the theme of the 2015 Party in the Park finale is 'Best of British' and in line with the theme has booked 'Who's Next', one of the UK's top The Who tribute bands. This also coincides with The Who's 50th anniversary in 2015.

Former Battle of the Bands competitor Jay Hadland has been appointed as chairman. Jay, originally from Bristol but now a resident in Okehampton, has previously reached the finals of the competition with his band The Copperfield Ensemble. He has had years of experience producing and promoting bands, gigs and theatre shows across the South West.

He said: 'We look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday, August 1 in Simmons Park.

'This is a free community event but we rely entirely on donations and sponsorship to run it.'

For more information on the competition go to the Okehampton Battle of the Bands Facebook page.