A north politician is calling for local bands and musicians to apply to take part in the regional heat of a politically engaging music competition.
Rhoda Grant MSP for the Highlands and Islands wants young people to get involved in Holyrood Rocks, where bands from across Scotland will compete in a final to take place at the Scottish Parliament.
The contest aims to encourage engagement in the political process, particularly among 16 and 17 year olds, who have been given the right to vote in Scottish Parliamentary and local elections.
It aims to showcase young musical talent while relaying the importance of democratic rights and the importance of the right to vote.
Throughout October, the Parliament in conjunction with the Scottish Political and Cultural Partnership will conduct eight regional heats across Scotland.
Members will be invited to select one band from their regional heat to go through to the final at the Scottish Parliament on Saturday, October 31.
The Highlands and islands heat will be in The Spectrum Centre, Margaret Street, Inverness on Saturday October 3.
Ms Grant said: “This is an exciting opportunity to get noticed both in the region and also a chance to compete at the final in the Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh.
“I hope local bands and musicians will consider applying to take part. The Scottish Parliament wants to hear the voice of young people who will help shape the future of politics in Scotland and the future of our country.
“This is a good way of engaging more young people to take part in the political process and to help encourage 16 and 17 year olds who have been given the right to vote to do so in the Scottish Parliament and local government elections in the coming years.”
Local bands or musicians in the region should apply before the deadline of Friday, September 25.