THE search is on for young, aspiring rhythm and blues musicians to perform at this year’s Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival in Colne.

Jessica Foxley Unsigned was set up in 2010 in memory of a talented young musician who was born in Cowling and died in a car crash at the age of 21.

The aim of the Unsigned contest, formerly the Jessica Foxley Stage, is to provide high-profile performance opportunities for young musicians.

Last year a total of eight acts were selected to play.

Rhythm and blues bands and solo artists can now apply for one of the sought-after places at this year’s festival and live auditions will take place at the ACE Centre in Nelson on June 21 and 22.

Festival organiser Alison Goode said: “Jessica was a young, up-and-coming, talented artist looking to carve out a musical career for herself and this is what we are aiming to do, to give other people just like her a chance.

“Over the last few years we have discovered some amazing talent and we are excited about what we might find this year.”

Interested musicians can apply online by completing a simple form and submitting a sound recording and video clip. The form is available online at jessicafoxley.com. The deadline for applications is Monday. (jun8)