A scheme to give talented young musicians the chance to become the next Radioheads is to become a regular event.

The first Sounding Off on Wednesday and Thursday proved such a success it is now going to be staged on a regular basis in Oxford.

And backers hope it will uncover major new talent to rival successful Oxford bands like Radiohead, Supergrass and Ride.

The scheme gives young bands and musicians the chance to experience the process of staging a concert, from planning and sound checks to a professional live per- formance.

Seven bands took part in the popular event at the Pegasus Theatre in Magdalen Road, east Oxford.

The bands were advised and supported by a crew of professional light and sound technicians and had the chance to wow local promoters.

Simon Floodgate, theatre community development officer, said the event, prompted by appeals from young bands for somewhere they could perform, had proved such a success they were aiming to stage it on a regular basis, starting next summer.

"I think some of the bands have very good prospects," he added.

The event was made possible through Arts for Everyone funding in conjunction with the theatre, the city and county councils and the Blackbird Leys Community Development Initiative.

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