ROCK School is returning to its roots in East Cambridgeshire this summer and is looking for new recruits for its biggest-ever venture. Fifty young amateur musicians will have just one week to form a band before they perform on the main stage at Fordhamfe

ROCK School is returning to its roots in East Cambridgeshire this summer and is looking for new recruits for its biggest-ever venture.

Fifty young amateur musicians will have just one week to form a band before they perform on the main stage at Fordhamfest.

Wilburton recording studio owner Paul McGuire, who worked on the popular Channel 4 Rock School series with Kiss front man Gene Simmons, is organising this year's competition.

"It's great to bring Rock School back to its roots," said Mr McGuire, who also founded the first-ever rock school back in 1994. Ely Community College was the host 14 years ago and Mr McGuire has since run another successful school at Long Road Sixth Form College in Cambridge.

Young people will be split into eight groups, according to musical taste. The eight new bands will be coached by Mr McGuire and top musicians from the Cambridgeshire area before a 10-minute set on the Fordhamfest stage which will be graced by headlining legends Hawkwind the following day.

Rock School 2008 will take place from August 1 to August 7 at Soham Village College. If you are aged 13-18 and would like to book a place, contact Mr McGuire on 07768000265. Young people must have a basic knowledge of their instrument before taking part.