THE search is on for the hottest musical talent in Redditch with the launch of a new Battle of the Bands competition this month.

Heats will be staged at pubs, including The Golden Cross, Unicorn Hill, from Saturday, August 25, and the best bands will go through to a final at The Newt and Cucumber, Birmingham, in October.

The winners will have the chance to cut their own professional CD in a Midland studio and cash prizes will also be up for grabs.

The first step for aspiring stars is to call the contest hotline on 07967 727639 for details on where to submit a tape recording of their music.