The search to find Croydon's hottest unsigned musical talent is underway.

The annual Testing 1,2,3 battle of the bands-style competition is now accepting entries for next year's contest which will see the winners follow in the footsteps of previous winners Size 9, Joshua C Edwards and last year's victors Four Kornerz, who went on to be nominated for a MOBO award.

Next February the judges will be looking for 18 Croydon acts to appear over three tense heats in three different categories: singer/songwriter, hip hop/R'n'B and bands.

Each night two of the acts will be sent through to the final by a panel of respected music industry judges with the overall winners having the chance to perform at Croydon Summer Festival, as well as receiving recording time, a photo shoot and vouchers.

The competition is organised by the arts, museum and community development service of Croydon Council and supported by the Croydon Guardian.

For an entry form email testing123@croydon.gov.uk, or go to Croydon Clocktower's ticket office in Katharine Street.

Entry deadline is November 30.