Unsigned rock and pop acts across the region are being given the chance of a lifetime thanks to The Northern Echo's music website, Revolution.

A competition is being launched to find two original acts who will win a host of fabulous prizes to give them a taste of life in the musical fast lane.

The Big Chance will see the winning pop act and the top rock band each receive: *Three days in a studio, two days of rehearsal time and a photo shoot courtesy of Sanity Multimedia, in Stockton, formerly Castlegate Studios.

*A complete hair makeover at Toni & Guy, in Darlington, for up to six band members *Their own website designed and hosted by Revolution.

*PR and marketing support.

*Their CD stocked by V Shop, Darlington, as well as possible other major name outlets.

*Publicity in The Northern Echo and on Revolution.

To enter the competition, acts must send in between May 3 and 17, either a CD, tape or MP3 (no larger than 3MB) featuring a track written and performed by themselves. This must be accompanied by an entry form, available on the Revolution website.

A panel of judges, including music journalists and people from the music industry will draw up a shortlist of three acts from each category, which will be announced on May 20.

The following fortnight will see the finalists performing two original songs and one cover version at a venue in the North-East.

Concert goers, visitors to Revolution and the judging panel will then determine the winners, which will be announced in early June.

Matthew Robinson, Revolution assistant, believes the competition is a massive opportunity for the region's talent.

He said: "The popularity of TV shows such as Pop Idol has shown there is a wealth of musical talent out there, but they don't really give original music a chance.

"It is also clear to us at Revolution that there is also an abundance of song writing ability in the region and The Big Chance is an amazing opportunity for people to show off their talents in both fields and win a prize of a lifetime." Band members must be aged 16 or over on May 3, 2002, and entries should be posted to The Big Chance, Revolution, The Northern Echo, PO Box 14, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF or e-mailed via the website.

To keep track of the competition, visit www.thisisrevolution.co.uk for regular updates.