PUPILS from George Tomlinson School, Kearsley, will be going on the beat next month as part of a new international Rock Challenge.

For the first time, Greater Manchester Police are organising a performing arts competition for young people, and schools from throughout the county, as well as Cumbria and West Yorkshire, are taking part.

The event takes place at the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester, on March 16 followed by the UK northern finals being held in Grimsby on March 24.

Each school prepares an eight-minute performance, using pieces of contemporary music as part of their musical interpretation.

"GMP is committed to the development of young people in a manner which steers them away from harmful substances - particularly drugs," said Chief Constable David Wilmot.

"'On the Beat' provides an exciting way to encourage this and, at the same time, allows them to share in the enjoyment of preparing for and performing in front of an audience."

The winners of the GMP competition have been invited to watch the Australian finals of Rock Challenge if sponsorship can be found and the winners of the northern finals receive £250 and a gold CD.

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