CALLING all hip young Winchester bands who want exposure on the big stage.

A competition has been launched to give local bands the chance to play at the Glade Festival, the electronic dance music event near Winchester.

The festival and the Winchester Music Development partnership have teamed up to host the contest to choose two bands to play live at the festival.

Glade takes place between July 16-19 at the Matterley Bowl, Cheesefoot Head.

To qualify, bands must write at least half the music yourselves and be ready to perform it live on stage. Any style or genre will be considered - but no DJ mixes.

Band members or performers must be from the Winchester City Council district AND under the age of 25.

Young people from Winfest and Winnall Rock School will be helping to choose the finalists at a gig for shortlisted bands later in June.

To apply, use the online submission form on the Tower's website at www.towerarts.co.uk to send in a link to your songs on myspace.

Alternatively, you can post a demo with a brief biography to: Glade Comp, The Tower, Romsey Road, Winchester, SO22 5PW.

The closing date is June 15.

The Winchester Music Development partnership consists of The Tower, the Railway Inn, Theatre Royal, Discovery Centre, city council, and Hampshire County Council.

The partnership - which came about during the Tower's change of management last year - aims to promote and celebrate youth music.