The Arc's Tri-Annual Battle of the Bands took place on September 25th which saw a record audience pour into Caterham's Arts and Recreation complex.

The usually quiet, relaxed and serene gallery space was transformed into a lively music arena as eight new, unsigned bands from Caterham and all over Surrey performed three tracks - each hoping to win the final prize of Recording Studio time.

Over 250 people went along to watch and vote for their winner, enjoying music ranging from Hardcore/Screamo, Indie and Rock. The bands could either perform covers or original material, with a highlight being one band's cover of the classic Stevie Wonder track "Superstition".

The winners of Battle of the Bands were "Within The Silence", a five-piece Hardcore band hailing from East Grinstead. They rocked The Arc and the crowd with an energetic and passionate performance. While all the votes were very close, with just nine votes separating the top three, "Within The Silence" just nudged it claiming the prize of Studio time and radio coverage. They will get their own session on Caterham Radio when it launches, and will be booked into Brooklands Radio and other media outlets across Surrey.

Drummer Ash Powell couldn't believe his band's victory. He said: "This is our first gig, so to win is just a bonus! We had a great night and we've only been together four months!"

Associate Director Andy Edmeads who organised the event said: "It was a great night and all the bands were great. It was a real step up from our first one in March in terms of audience and quality - long may Battle of the Bands rock!"?For more information on Within The Silence, please go to www.myspace.com/withinthesilenceuk

There will be more Battle of the Band nights in 2011 and dates and line ups are still to be confirmed. 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. For more information on The Arc and other events and activities go to www.the-arc-caterham.co.uk or call 01883 330380.