LOCAL musicians are being invited to enter a competition, with the winner getting the chance to perform at an iconic Los Angeles music venue.

Bands and solo artists can both apply. Entrants will then be shortlisted by an expert panel, including Virgin Records Managing Director, Clive Cawley, and former Oasis bassist Andy Bell.

The finalists will then perform live in front of the judging panel at Manchester Airport.

The winning band or artist will then head to LA, sat in upper class, before taking to the stage at The Roxy for a one-night-only performance.

Located on the Sunset Strip, The Roxy has seen artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, Bob Marley, and The Ramones all take to the stage

The competition has been launched by former Oasis bass player Andy Bell and Virgin Atlantic to celebrate the Manchester Airport's new route to LA.

Andy Bell will also join the winner in LA to offer his expert advice and support

He said: “Virgin Atlantic’s Headline the Roxy is the ultimate chance for someone to make their big break and have the experience of a lifetime in LA.

"There’s so much musical talent coming from the north – I’m looking forward to seeing the entries and heading across the Atlantic with the winner.”

Virgin Atlantic will fly three times a week from Manchester to LA from Sunday 26 May 2019.

Juha Jarvinen at Virgin Atlantic said: “Manchester and LA have long shared a great love for music, with each city claiming home to legendary bands and icons.

"We’re delighted to be able to give the North’s next big thing the opportunity to perform at The Roxy and let their music career take flight, as we celebrate yet another link between the two great cities with the launch of regular Virgin Atlantic flights between Manchester and Los Angeles this May.”

Julian Carr, Aviation Director at Manchester Airport, added: “As the UK’s global gateway in the North, Manchester Airport is proud to help support budding talent across the region, and offer even more chances for passengers to easily visit LA with the launch of the new Virgin Atlantic route. I wish each of the 22 million people in our catchment area the best of luck in the competition.”

Entries to the competition are open with the winner set to fly to LA on the inaugural flight on Sunday 26 May

For more information on how to enter, visit m.emails.virginatlantic.com/webApp/PAPP46.