Bands make it to contest final

In a close-fought heat at The Edge of The Wedge in Southsea, Shoot The Duke and Southerlies narrowly beat solo acts Yena Fadaka and Sam Cutbush.

Ross Murphy, 36, of Southsea, is Southerlies frontman, and said: ‘We did this competition a long time ago when were called The Visitors, and we made it to the final. I’ve written a lot of new songs since then, and it seemed like a good time to have another go.’

Tom Bryan, 22, from Southsea, of Shoot The Duke added: ‘We wanted the chance to showcase our songs and see what people thought of them. We thought everyone else did really well and put in their all.’

They will join Aaron Middleton and John Bradley at the final on Sunday, June 26, which is open to all to attend.

The winner will record in Italy, and at the renowned Air Studios in London. The competition is backed by The News and is part of the Portsmouth Festivities. Tickets for the final at The Wedgewood Rooms are £5, doors open 7.30pm. Go to portsmouthfestivities.co.uk