Okehampton Battle of the Bands kicked off in style last week with the first heat of the contest.

The first six bands took to the stage in the Charter Hall, providing fantastic entertainment, energy, enthusiasm and talent.

In a closely judged heat, the eventual winners were Torquay-based indie band Dirty Dusk, who impressed with their original material, confidence and stage presence.

In second place were Plymouth four-piece alternative band Velvet Swans, with 2011 entrants MIU taking third place.

The judges commended all the entrants for providing a high standard of competition.

BOTB organiser Chris Hodgson said: 'This is a fantastic start to the competition, 2012 is going to be great for Battle of the Bands.'

Before the music kicked off, Teresa Edwards and Andrea Bolt from Waitrose donated a cheque for £1,000 to the Battle of the Bands from the supermarket's 'Music Matters' scheme.

Teresa said: 'It was great that Waitrose were able to support young music and also the Battle of the Bands and Party in the Park, both of which are great events for Okehampton.'

The third and final heat of the contest takes place on Wednesday, August 1 in the Charter Hall. The second heat was scheduled to take place last night (July 25), with a special guest performance from Okehampton-based metal band First Requiem, who showcased some new material.

Doors for the heat next Wednesday open from 7.30pm, with live music from 8pm and a licensed bar provided by the Plymouth Inn.

The three heats build up to the spectacular Party in the Park finale, sponsored by Steven's Estate Agents, Herbs 'n' Spices, Okehampton United Charity and the Plymouth Inn.

Taking place on Saturday, August 11, the Party in the Park includes a headline set by ten-piece funk band Joey the Lips, fire-eaters and lots of other entertainment.

For more information about the Okehampton Battle of the Bands, visit http://www.okehamptonbattleofthebands.co.uk">www.okehamptonbattleofthebands.co.uk or follow the event through the Battle of the Bands Facebook page.