TOP pop stars the Klaxons, The Cribs and Brighouse band Embrace are to launch a school battle of the bands contest in Leeds.

The Centre Stage competition, organised by charity Martin House Children’s Hospice, Boston Spa, Wetherby, is open to secondary school pupils and has a top prize of a slot at the famous Leeds Festival.

Last year Salendine Nook High School’s Angels Playing Saints reached the final at the massive O2 Academy in Leeds.

The group did not win but organiser Sarah Smith said she was hoping for a strong entry list from the Huddersfield region.

She said: “Huddersfield had quite a presence in Centre Stage 2010 and, hopefully, will in this year’s competition, too.

“Last year’s event was a huge success, attracting a crowd of over a thousand.

“It was bigger and better than we could ever have anticipated.

“All the acts were overcome with excitement as this proved the to be the biggest gig of their lives, playing on the same stage as their musical heroes at such an acclaimed venue!”www.martinhouse.org.uk