BUSINESS-savvy youngsters have spent their half term learning the tricks of the music trade.

The six, who range in age from 13 to 23, will put on their own Battle of the Bands at Meca next month.

They have been guided by Old Town management consultant Sadie Sharp. The 36-year-old businesswoman is the brains behind youth scheme Platform Project, an Apprentice-style project that aims to give youngsters the experience and skills to help them set up in business.

Initially planning to pitch the Battle of the Bands event at teenagers, the youngsters decided to open up the night to a wider audience.

“It’s become much more of a family event, so we have as broad an appeal as possible” said boss Sadie.

Maths whizz AJ Kyson, 16, who has been focussed on budgeting for the night, said: “We’ve been finding a way to make it so parents and kids as well as teenagers will come in.”

Sadie said: “The teenagers have decided everything from how much the tickets are going to be to how we’re going to make a profit.”

All the money raised from the event will be reinvested in youth scheme the Platform Project. The new scheme is applying for grant funding for a video project that will see kids hit the streets to document different social problems in the town.

This is the second week-long scheme organised by Platform Project.

Sadie said: “It’s gone really well. It’s been much more intense than previous weeks.”

Moredon teen AJ, who is in his GCSE year at Uplands School, said: “I wanted to learn something new, so I’ve got something interesting on my CV for the future when I go for jobs.”

Lee Morey, 23, of Old Town, was looking to the day to give him experience that could help him set up in music production.

“I’m 23 and unemployed,” said Lee. “I thought this was a good opportunity to get some experience.

“I’ve made a few mistakes. But I’m turning my life around.”

The Battle of the Bands will be at Meca on Thursday, November 23, from 6pm – 9pm. Doors will open at 5pm, with stalls and activities for families.

To find out more and to book a stall at the event, visit: www.platformproject.co.uk or email info@platformproject.co.uk.