Bolton School Boys' Division's third annual Battle of the Bands has, once again, unearthed some real talent.  As ever, the event was hugely attractive and pulled in a large crowd of both boys and girls, as well as a good few members of staff.

The School was delighted to welcome Andy Peebles as a judge.  Andy is now a deejay on Manchester’s Smooth FM, his earlier career having seen him work for the BBC for 13 years, where he had shows on Radio 1, Radio 2 and Radio 5.  He has also reported on cricket for the BBC for over 20 years.  He is often remembered for conducting the last British media interview with John Lennon, just two days before his death.  

This year the four bands that won their way through to the final were: City Limits, Fix Bayonets, Thor and solo artist, Ben Collinson.  Each act delivered excellent and professional performances and two of the groups - City Limits and Thor made it into the final.  Last year’s winners, Radio Edit, performed whilst the judges pondered the their decision.

After much deliberation, City Limits were announced as this year’s winners. 

Andy Peebles commented: "Very impressive.  I am stunned by the quality of the music I have seen here.  I’ve seen Bolton School perform classical music in Manchester Cathedral and now I’ve seen you perform outstanding rock and roll too!”

The judging panel comprised Andy Peebles (Chief Judge) and Mr Bleasdale and Mr Martin of the Music Department.

The event, coupled with a dress-down day, raised over £1600, the money going to several charities, including Save the Children, the Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (ASBAH) and the Wheelchair fund for Max Sampson, a local boy who suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy.