Selby Town Council is very pleased to welcome City of York Council's Children and Young Persons Champion, Councilor James Alexander, to act as an X-Factor style judge at their sell-out award winning battle of the bands competition. James will witness the hugely positive work that is taking place in Selby developing musical activities for young people.

The annual competition for young musicians is now well into its fourth year. The event forms part of the venues unique program of band shows for under 20s, held in a safe, alcohol free environment staffed by youth workers and security guards.

James will be judging the second of two heats and will be choosing the bands that go through to the final in June.

James said: "I am honoured to be selected as a judge for this event. I will not be wearing my trousers as high as Simon Cowell and I will try to be a lot nicer. These are very talented and hard working young people who deserve much praise. I will also be talking to young people about the event and observing how such popular and successful schemes for young people operate in other authorities. I hope to take back to the Council my experience to help make events that York put on for young people even better."  

The scheme allows young music fans to see quality performances in their home town, and with tickets for all shows priced at just £2, they ensure that nobody is priced out.

The series of monthly events has so far seen the likes of The Pigeon Detectives and The Wombats, who have since gone on to international chart success, play in front of capacity crowds at the much loved venue.

Doors open at 7:15, first band will be on at 8.00pm. Event finishes by 11.