ROCK outfit Depon Eye have secured a new manager, reached the final of a battle of the bands contest and are looking for a new drummer.

The popular Burnley five-piece won their heat of the competition in Northwich last weekend and, after beating off a number of local bands, are set to return to the Cheshire town in June for the final.

Singer Roy Bright revealed the decision to go was a spur of the moment thing but they were delighted with the outcome of the evening.

He said: "We know battles of the bands can often be popularity contests but we just went there with a view to playing well and promoting our new EP."

The response from the young audience was overwhelming, with the lads not only stealing the show to win the heat but also shifting a stack of CDs to boot.

Having just recorded the final numbers for the four-track EP -- entitled Insane FM -- at Whitworth's Studio Studio, things seem to be clicking into place. But with new manager Mark McLeod at the helm, the band --whose rock style is described as more Papa Roach than Limp Bizkit -- are also coming to terms with losing their drummer Matt. Roy said: "It's not an acrimonious parting. Matt just wants to follow his heart and make the sort of music he loves."

And although they're resigned to losing his services, Matt has pledged his support to the group until they find the right replacement.

Anyone with a rock background interested indrumming for the group should contact Roy via their website or on 07748 335771.

Depon Eye also join Necessary Elvis and Uncowboy at the Carlton Hotel in Burnley on Easter Sunday.