YOUNG rockers battled it out yesterday to see whose band was best.

The Junior Battle of the Bands, in which 11 groups pitted their skills against each other, was won by Small Screen Light Show, of Seaham, east Durham, who won £250.

Reptar and Pyromaniacs, both of Chester-le-Street, came second and third respectively.

The event, at the Rainton Meadows Arena, near Hough-ton-le-Spring, east Durham, was organised by John Blythe, of Chester-le-Street, and friend Lee Sanders, whose son plays in one of the bands.

Mr Blythe said: "The local battle of the bands is normally held at Park View School, in Chester-le-Street, during the year.

"But youngsters wanted to have an event staged over the Christmas period as well, in a bid to attract more competitors.

"The music was mainly rock, and the standard of playing of several of bands was high. The instrumental skills of some were an exceptional standard.

"While the oldest players were about 17, there were some as young as 13 to 14, who were very impressive."

The event was attended by about 300 people, and there are plans to hold a similar contest next year.

Among the other groups appearing were Star Blind and My First Brothel