BANDS and musicians from the Okehampton area are being invited to take part in a premier music competition.

Okehampton Battle of the Bands organisers have received the first few entries for the competition, and they are looking to encourage bands and acts from the town to take part.

Eighteen acts will compete for the 2013 prizes, four acts will make it to the final and one band will claim the main prize. Applications covering all musical styles are encouraged and there are only two main rules: no signed acts and no tribute bands.

One of the organisers Chris Hodgson said: 'All you need is 20 minutes of material of literally any musical style. We are keen to include as wide a variety of musical styles as possible, welcoming entrants of all ages, ability and musical background.

'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 the judges will be looking for that little bit of magic which only live music can deliver.'

The dates for the competition heats are July 3, July 10 and July 17, and the 2012 winners the Badland Bandits are due to play a headline set at the final heat. The spectacular Party in the Park finale is planned for August 3.

To find out more or to apply online visit http://www.okehamptonbattleofthebands.org.uk">www.okehamptonbattleofthebands.org.uk and follow the competition on Facebook and Twitter.