Great to see the crowds in Okehampton for the Olympic Torch - it just shows how the community can get together. Next the crowds will gather themselves for The Jubilee celebrations and then it is the towns favourite community event - Battle of the Bands.

Already we are nearly at the end of May and the South West's favourite Battle of the Bands is coming alive. All eighteen places have already been taken for this years event which sees the return of a few great bands from the last few years along with some fantastic new acts.

Musically we've got everything from acoustic solo artists, to pyrate-folk, rockabilly, pop-punk and rock with bands citing influences ranging from Newton Faulkner to The Black Veil Brides. We're just interested to see if anybody can top "Ralph Devil Riders" stage make-up.

The Party in the Park has really come together and we are just adding the finishing touches. Joey the Lips, Tony King, Fire Eaters – all in all, a great nights entertainment.

One thing is for sure though, BotB 2012 is not to be missed. The quality of the acts that have applied is really high. This is going to be a fantastic event and BotB2012 is set to be a great year. Get the dates into your diary now and keep in touch through our F'book page.

Eighteen Bands, Four Finalists and One Winner – Okehampton BotB 2012, be there and be part of it!