A BAND from Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester have won a chance to play at the open air festival in Lulworth.

The rock band Epic Journey fought off tough competition from the 15 other bands in a Battle of the Bands competition that took place at the school.

The band will now go on to play on the main stage at Lulworth Castle Summer Spectacular Open Air concert on Thursday, July 3.

Lead guitarist Tim Lawson said: "We didn't expect to win as the competition was very strong and we are looking forward to playing at the castle."

The band started in 2007 and are made up of four pupils mostly in year nine, and they play a mixture of covers and their own material.

Lulworth Estate owner James Weld handed over a £250 cheque for the school funds and pledged to give £1 to the school for every ticket sold by the school.

He said: "Music features highly at the estate and it seems fitting to involve and encourage local talent to take to the stage."

The Rollin' Clones and The Fab Beatles will be headlining the evening on July 3 followed by a firework display.

For tickets go to www.lulworth.com or go to Weymouth or Wareham Tourist Information Centres.