TICKETS are now available for The Big Chance concert, which will help find the region's top rock and pop acts.

Music fans can get to see the three shortlisted acts in each genre battle it out for votes on the night, which will go towards the final judging of the contest.

The event has been organised by The Northern Echo's music website, Revolution. The prizes include studio time and a CD on sale in top outlets.

A new sponsor, The Designer Room, of Jackson's Landing, Hartlepool Marina, has put forward the money to cover the cost of the sound system for the show on Thursday, June 6, from Viking Sound, Northallerton.

Lisa Hall, The Designer Room's marketing manager, said: "We are thrilled to be a part of The Big Chance and we are looking forward to helping find the region's top rock and pop acts."

The event will take place at Darlington College of Technology, Cleveland Avenue, Darlington, from 6.30pm.

Free tickets are now available at V Shop's Darlington and Durham outlets, Virgin in Middlesbrough, Darlington College of Technology and The Northern Echo's head office in Priestgate, Darlington.

* For regular updates on The Big Chance, as well as a full list of prizes and details, visit www.thisisrevolution.co.uk