THE fight is now under way, with a fantastic start to Okehampton's ever growing competition — the Battle of the Bands.

The first eight bands hit the stage with energy, confidence and boundless raw talent, entertaining a capacity crowd in the towns Charter Hall last Thursday.

In a closely fought heat the eventual winners were Crediton four-piece rock band Alternative Plan, who performed a tight set of original tracks, taking their influences from classic metal, blues and indie.

In joint second place were a group of young men from Exeter, The Sherpas, and The Vics.

The Vics, from Plymouth, are another up and coming band with a post punk indie sound.

The bands are now waiting on the results of the next two heats to see if they are going to make it through to the grand final.

The audience also enjoyed other bands who gave tremendous performances and between them provided great value entertainment that was appreciated by everybody.

Inflatable guitars were there in numbers — an essential piece of kit required to participate in this year's air guitar competition.

Anyone who is still in need of an inflatable guitar can pick one up from Rockhen's Coop.

The lucky winner will also get the chance to win an electric guitar donated by Time Machine, plus guitar lessons by Bob Matthews.

All proceeds from the event will go towards next year's competition.

In the build-up to the grand final, which is sponsored by Balfour Beatty, Heat Two will be held today (Thursday) in the Charter Hall.

Another eight bands will be performing.

The first band will be on stage at 6.30pm and a licensed bar will be provided by The Plymouth Inn.