MEMBERS of a teenage Bury band in search of a major record deal still reckon it has every chance of outlasting the "Popstars" sensations.

The band Al!ve believes the TV-manufactured group which includes 19-year-old Bury girl Suzanne Shaw could struggle to last the pace.

Al!ve gave a concert at St James's CE Secondary School, Farnworth, after spending an afternoon encouraging pupils to become involved in music.

Bass guitar player Craig Stelnicki claimed the TV group could fade from the spotlight within a year.

Talking after the concert he said: "They will have a few hits but won't make it much further. Bands like us who write their own material have a much better chance of being spoken about in 20 years time."

Al!ve frontman Andy Ross (19) said: "Our big hope for the next year is to be signed by a major record label. We love what we do and hope some of that rubs off on the children." The Popstars group, whose progress has been well documented in the Granada TV series, is set to release its debut single on March 12.

Al!ve, comprising19-year-old bass guitar player Craig, lead guitarist and vocalist Andy, rhythm guitarist Daz Kane, 18, and drummer Martin Whyment (18), formed five years ago in Bury after meeting at school.

They played at Buckingham Palace for Prince Charles' 50th Birthday Reception when they met the Queen.

Since then the band has played nearly 300 gigs. These have including high profile live performances on BBC One's Live and Kicking and Granada's This Morning.

The group visited Farnworth as part of a national tour of schools, aimed at motivating children to take up an instrument.

They returned in the evening to play at the school's disco, the proceeds of which were donated to the Indian earthquake appeal.