Young musicians from South Craven are being urged to take centre stage.

Budding stars aged five to 25 are being invited to take part in a series of musical showcases in a countywide hunt for talent organised by North Yorkshire County Council.

The project is being co-ordinated by the Live and Loud initiative, run by the authority's continuing education unit.

Project leader Richie Mitchell said: "It can be any kind of music, from the spoons to heavy metal, as long as it makes a sound.

"The aim is to encourage youngsters to have a go. We have already come across ten and 12-year-olds who are better than some of the older bands. It's astounding how talented they are at playing and writing songs."

Showcase sessions are being held at locations across the county, including Glusburn Institute on June 21.

A grand finale will be held at a youth arts festival due to be staged at Tadcaster on July 5.

Musicians will be judged by their peers, with each band nominating a volunteer to sit on a selection panel to choose an overall winner.

The project aims to help musicians pursue their dreams of working in the industry, and even offers recording opportunities. The council runs its own record label -- 6K Vision Records.

Anyone interested in taking part should contact Richie on 01609 780780 ext 3019.