A TEENAGE punk rock group are aiming for their big break this weekend when they perform in the Darwen 2004 music festival.

The four Year 10 pupils at Darwen Moorland High School will take to the Cue Music Stage at Marigolds function room on Sunday - and already have their sights set on the main stage next year.

They only began learning to play instruments just over a year ago during an after-school activity called Rock School.

Their group, called Denied, comprises singer and guitarist Jamie Hamilton, singer and bass player Phil Schofield, drummer Andrew Henrick and guitarist Sam Perkin.

Andrew, 14, said: "We are really pleased to be taking part in the festival but we are getting a bit nervous now it's just around the corner.

"We are doing it because we really enjoy it so hopefully it can continue like that."

The group, who rehearse at Rock School and in the garage of one of their parents' homes, have now bought all their own instruments and hope a PA system will follow.

Their interest was encouraged by local musicians Terry Walsh and Gary Ward, who asked them to take part in the festival.

Denied will perform two songs by Green Day, two by Blink 182, one by Stacy's Mum and an instrumental piece during their set at Marigolds from 1pm.