There will soon be celebrity musicians galore visiting Harpenden to watch local youth bands battling it out on stage at a charity event.

McBusted drummer Harry Judd, Puppini Sisters’ Kate Mullins and vocalist Ed MacFarlane and guitarist Edd Gibson of St Albans band Friendly Fires are to judge young people competing in a Battle of the Bands.

Local groups will perform original compositions and covers at the event being held at Harpenden Public Halls on Saturday, April 5.

The fundraiser has been organised by Harpenden Lions in conjunction with Izzy and Harry Judd.

It will seek out the best up and coming local bands while raising money for the Eyes Alight Appeal which was set up in March 2010 by Izzy, who is from Harpenden, and her family.

The appeal supports those cared for by the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust.

Izzy explained: “Eyes Alight is totally inspired by my brother Rupert who tragically suffered a serious brain injury in 1997 as a result of a car accident.

“My husband Harry and I are very excited to be collaborating with Harpenden Lions for the Battle of the Bands which will take place on Rupert’s birthday in our local town, Harpenden.”

Izzy said the event would also raise funds for Kent House, a specialist residential rehabilitation centre for people with acquired brain injury in Aylesbury, where Rupert lives.

She went on: “We couldn’t think of a more fun and appropriate fundraiser and we hope that the competition will educate and inspire young local musicians for a wonderful cause close to our hearts.”

The contest starts at 7pm, with the doors open and food and drink available from 6.15pm.

Tickets cost £12 for adults, and £10 for under-18s and are available from the Musicale shop in Sun Lane on 01582 713333. For more information see www.facebook.com/HarpendenBotB