A LOCAL singer/songwriter and a band are asking fans to support them as they go before a panel in the semi-finals of a major international music competition that will see them play at the O2 Academy in Islington.

Adam Duffill, from Hockley, will travel up there on July 20 to play the gig. If he goes through to win the contest he could find himself performing at Budapest’s Sziget Festival 2012, as well as nabbing a slot at Guitar Nation, a four-day UK tour and lots of music equipment and PR packages and recording time.

Vacant Touch, from Southend, will be on stage a few days earlier in July and are hoping they might also make it through to the finals. Fans of the two acts can lend them a hand by voting for them via text. The final decision is made trough a combination of text votes, audience votes and responses from the panel.

Adam is really delighted to get so far in the competition.

He says: “I was really surprised when speaking to the organisers to learn that out of the 60 acts that will compete in the semi-finals, there are only two solo acts left – me and Anthony Love.

“I couldn’t believe it at first, and I’m incredibly grateful. Anyone who knows me knows I love to perform, every night where possible.

“I only really entered to get the opportunity to perform in London and see what the response was like. Fortunately, people seemed to really enjoy my songs and I’ve since been asked to play in other London venues.”

Fans can vote for Adam by texting SOUTH 5101 or for Vacant Touch by texting SOUTH 5255 to 64343. Messages cost £1 plus standard network charge.

You can also show your support in person with tickets for the event which are £8 in advance and £10 on the door. They are available through www.o2academyislington.co.uk