Local heroes are poised to become guitar heroes after making it into the final of an unsigned band competition.

Outcry, made up of Mark Roberts, Joe O'Neill and Jose Fernandez, of Bicester, and David McMahon, of Oxford, are busy preparing for their final performance, which will take place in London in June.

The band, who met in 2005 while living in a caravan in Launton, have beaten more than 10,000 applicants to get through the regional auditions, a live semi-final and a regional final.

Singer David, 21, and Mark, 24, who plays keyboard, recruited guitarist Joe, 22, and drummer Jose, 24, last year.

The group is just one gig away from being crowned the UK's Live and Unsigned best band or solo act.

Joe said: "To get this far in the competition is unreal. We entered this competition for experience as we had not performed publicly.

"We were very happy to go through the first round and were absolutely amazed when we got through the regional semis and the final. Now we have a big chance ahead of us."

Dave said: "It's been hard work but, at the same time, we owe a lot to our loyal fans that have shown us support on each occasion. This has really boosted our confidence and given us the push we need to really show what we can do. If we were to win this competition, then it really would be a dream come true for all of us. But no matter what the outcome, it has been a great start for the band and a good stepping stone for our future."

The final takes place in Croydon on June 28 and the winner will get a recording and management contract - with up to £20,000 invested to help launch their career. For more about the band, see outcryonline.co.uk