THREE East Lancashire students are looking forward to getting a close-up view of their favourite band -- after winning the chance to film them live on stage.

Former Blackburn College student David Kay managed to land the rights to film The Levellers for an official video after writing to the band's management.

David, 22, will be capturing the group on film when they appear at Preston's Guild Hall in March.

He will be helped by Natalie Brennan, of Burnley, and Ryan Gifford, of Blackburn.

The three are studying on the media and production degree course at the Cumbria Institute for the Arts.

David said he contacted the band through their management and asked if his company, Red Brick Productions, could film one of their concerts.

The management agreed and although the film won't go towards his final degree David said he is looking forward to the experience.

He said: "The university encourages students to make independent productions and is lending us some equipment."

Although they have the support of the Institute, Red Brick Productions still need further funding.

David said: "We have already spent £400 on tapesand we would like to be able to use a minibus for transport."

David and his team will be filming interviews with the band as well as footage of the concert. Their work is planned to be released as an official Levellers video next year.

The Levellers -- named after a radical section of Oliver Cromwell's Civil War followers -- formed in Brighton in 1988 and all 1,000 copies of their first EP 'Carry Me' sold within a few weeks. Their latest album is called Green Blade Rising, but their biggest chart hit to date has been What A Beautiful Day.

The band starts an extensive, 15-date UK tour on March 1 in Dudley.

Anyone who can help the trio can contact David on 07909 673239 or davidkay@redbrickproductions

.co.uk