A BAND with members from Darlington and Newton Aycliffe have battled through to the final of a music competition.

The Shining have won a heat and semi-final to reach the last three in The Studio Battle of the Bands competition, in Hartlepool, the final of which takes place tomorrow.

The six-piece band, who are recording their first album, only heard about the competition after approaching The Studio venue in the hope of getting a gig.

Vocalist Ronnie Hewison said: "We are still expecting a Hartlepool band to win it because it is a Hartlepool competition, but we are more optimistic now than at the start because of the judges' comments."

The band was established in 1998, when Spiritual Dawn recruited three members to form The Shining. Their musical influences include The Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Doors and Jimi Hendrix.

The prize for winning is a recording session, which would allow The Shining to complete their debut album.

The band is expecting a large following to cheer them on at the final at The Studio, Tower Street.

A bus has been laid on for fans, leaving from Newton Aycliffe, and there are still a few places available. Contact Ronnie Hewison on (07813) 619933 for more information.

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