FRESH talent will be on parade this weekend at the Battle of the Bands 2001 as new local musicians tough it out against one another on the Brewery's Malt room stage.

The shiniest, youngest faces of the local pop/rock/ punk scene will all be there competing for the coveted prize of £200 worth of vouchers to spend on musical equipment.

Contenders include Kirkby Lonsdale's Queen Elizabeth School band Wishful Thinking, Kirkbie Kendal School's Ramification along with two Queen Katherine School band's - Mental Note and The Dave McGovern Band.

This year two independent bands have also entered the competition - Frozen Phoenix and Loki.

Last time an eclectic mix of bands served up a selection of covers of hit songs, cartoon theme tunes and original material to the delight of the panel of judges.

And it was a dynamic set from rock rap band Jevnecta, of Queen Elizabeth School, who gained the unanimous winning vote for their energy, confidence, musical ability and interaction with the audience.

Youth safety group Slipstream, who have organised the event, promise this year's competition will be just as good as last year.

Battle of the Bands 2001 begins at 7.30pm tomorrow (Saturday).