TWO North-East music fans are planning to launch a showcase for unsigned talent which they hope will prove as popular as an iconic 1980s television programme.

Paul Thompson and David Hopkins, who have set up Izon Audio Visual Ltd, say the format could be as successful as The Tube, which was presented by Jools Holland and Paula Yates and filmed in Newcastle.

The Tube helped to launch bands including Frankie Goes To Hollywood and The Proclaimers, while established artists, such as U2, Simply Red and Duran Duran, were featured on the programme.

Izon, a production company based in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, has filmed two pilot episodes of the new show, which is yet to be named.

It is aimed at showcasing the best unsigned bands and artists from around the country, and has been shot at the Glass Spider nightclub, in Sunderland.

Mr Hopkins said: "We think there is a huge audience out there who would be interested in viewing the show.

"If you think of how many people watch the X Factor which, in most people's eyes, has no credibility at all, this gives you an idea of the possible audience."

He insists that it is not a talent competition, but offers a chance for unsigned musicians to show their ability.

"It bears no relation to shows like the X Factor, and is basically a platform for unsigned bands to help launch their careers," he said. "The show is not a competition and has no judges or gimmicks. It is solely about talent."

It features music from all genres, including hip hop, R'n'B and indie.

Mr Hopkins said: "If it is good, then we want it on."

The show has two presenters, Principul, from Stockton, and Ema Johnson, from Leeds, and features six bands, each performing two songs and taking part in a short interview.

Those who appeared in the first pilot show, filmed last month, include The Freys, Gina Dootson, The People of Santiago, Rebel Yell, PSD and Take the Fifth.

Mr Hopkins says the format has attracted interest from independent television companies, and he is confident it will be aired next year.

He said: "Anyone who is interested in music would watch the show, including record companies, publishers and managers, as this is a great way of seeing the stars of the future here today."