Band wanted...

For years musicians seeking a band to join have put their details on to music shop noticeboards. But Shropshire guitarist Andy Bennett has gone one step further - he's got an audition video on Shropshirestar.com.

Now bands can see whether he is what they are looking for without going through the time-honoured, and often time-consuming, process of arranging auditions.

"I know from experience that it will save a lot of time," said the 40-year-old events organiser, of Cressage.

Mr Bennett decided to get back into music after spending at home raising daughter Rosie while his wife continued her career.

When Rosie started school this year he decided it was time to see if his passion for music could help to provide a part-time income.

"There are lots of people like me in their thirties or early forties who have played in bands before or who enjoy playing on their own, but who don't know how to get in touch with other people," he said.

"The traditional way is to stick your details in a music shop or put an advert in the music section of your newspaper. So this is an extension of that, letting them look at your playing before making contact with you.

"I'm taking advantage of the fact that you don't have to have your own website to make use of the internet."

Mr Bennett said he was looking to join a blues or funk band.

Any groups with a vacancy can watch his audition on Shropshirestar.com and then call him on 01952 510276.