CENTRE Stage, the regional battle of the bands contest, has opened entries for next year.

The competition is organised as a fundraiser by Martin House Children’s Hospice, and offers local bands the chance to compete for a slot at Leeds and Reading Festivals.

Young bands and soloists taking part are required to raise funds for entry.

Participants must be aged between 11 and 21 and come from West or North Yorkshire. Once registered, acts will be entered into the heats, taking place next April in Leeds.

The finalists will take the stage at the O2 Academy, Leeds, in July, following a professional mentoring day.

Visit martinhouse.org.uk/centre-stage for more details.