The Arc's Tri-Annual Battle of the Bands took place on Friday 23rd September which saw youngsters from across Surrey pour into Caterham's Arts and Recreation complex in Weston Drive, Caterham-on-the-Hill.

The usually quiet, relaxed and serene Gallery space was transformed into a lively music arena as six new, unsigned bands from Caterham and all over Surrey performed three tracks – each hoping to win the final prize of recording studio time, press coverage and a slot on Ridge Radio.

Over 250 people came to watch and vote for their winner. The bands can either perform covers or original material, with some bands playing live for the first time,

The winner of Battle of the Bands were 'Fret 14', a four-piece from Reigate who wowed the crowd with a strong set including an Arctic Monkeys cover.

Their official Facebook page says: "Fret 14 are a rock/indie band. They play a variety of music including their own material and covers. The four members all go to school together and are good mates. The band are relatively new, created in early 2011 but are already out gigging up to four or five times a month."

Their influences include Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Two Door Cinema Club. They say they want to: "Perform a variety of covers and our own music and to work our way up as far as it will take us."

Battle of the Bands returns in 2012 with dates to be announced. If you are in a band and want the chance to play, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for an Entry Form.

The Arc is delighted to be hosting a Band Night in honour of Live and Direct on 18th November with tickets on sale now at £5.

For more information on The Arc and other events and activities go to www.the-arc-caterham.co.uk or call 01883 330380. Join us on facebook.com/thearccaterham and twitter.com/thearccaterham for more updates and offers!