Entries are still being sought for the popular Staffordshire Rocks competition after the deadline was extended. The deadline has been put forward following pleas from budding bandless rock hopefuls. The competition, which was a huge success last year, gives school rock bands the opportunity to compete for an appearance at the National Rock and Pop Festival at the NEC later on in the year. The Staffordshire Performing Arts team is behind the competition, and has written to all schools in the county providing details of how to enter. Lyn Lennox, from the team, said: "We have had a lot of interest in the competition so far this year and as the word has spread, there are more and more pupils who want to take part who are not yet in bands. To make sure that as many bands as possible get to take part we have extended the deadline until March 14." To be able to enter their band in Staffordshire Rocks, all members must be educated in the same Staffordshire school and be aged 11 -18 years. They must also get their entries endorsed by the head of music at their school. Entrants will be invited to a first round heat to perform for up to 15 minutes maximum. Judges will award extra credit for original material. Bands that make it through the first round will perform before a panel of adjudicators at one of three semi-finals and from these, the winners and runners-up will go through to the Staffordshire Rocks grand final in the summer. l Any bands who wish to enter Staffordshire Rocks should ask the head of music at their school to call Lyn Lennox, Marketing Officer, Staffordshire Performing Arts, on 01785 278282. | 
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