Band receives double award from Devon law firm

West Country band The Stylers, who recently triumphed in a competition to spot young musical talent across the counties of Devon, Dorset and Somerset, have received their trophies from key event partner Beviss & Beckingsale.

The Stylers, from Dorchester, beat off stiff competition from across the three counties at the TBOB Battle of the Bands competition, held in the Dorset village of Thorncombe this summer. They were voted Overall Winners and Best U21 band.

The four musicians won a full day in a recording studio with professional producer Phil Nicholas who has worked with a number of top acts, including Def Leppard, Billy Ocean and Bryan Adams. The prize was presented to them last week by solicitor Mark Carlisle, a Partner at law firm Beviss & Beckingsale, which has offices in Axminster, Chard, Honiton and Seaton.

Mark Carlisle said: “Supporting the local community is one of our firm’s core values. That’s why we were delighted to be involved with the Battle of the Bands. The quality of entrants was extremely high, but The Stylers were deserved winners.

“It’s great to see such talented youngsters. No doubt they will make great use of this opportunity and go on to bigger things. They are charming and dedicated and I wish them the very best of luck.”

The youngest member of the band, 16 year old Will Davies (Lead Guitar), has just taken his GCSEs at Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester. His fellow bandmates Nat Burnell (Drums) and Alfie Neale (Rhythm Guitar and Lead Vocals), both 17, are in the Sixth Form at Thomas Hardye. Arthur Lashmar (Bass Guitar), who’s 19, has just left and is about to take up a place at Exeter University.

Will Davies said: “Winning TBOB means the world to us as it was our first competition. We only started playing together about six months ago and exams have got in the way of rehearsals. Winning really encourages us to carry on with our music.” 

Phil Gordon, TBOB organiser & promoter, commented: "The standard of musicianship in the competition was outstanding and the feeling of encouragement between the bands was fabulous to see.”

“Beviss & Beckingsale supporting the first ever TBOB made a huge difference and I've already been persuaded to look at TBOB II for next year. There is so much musical talent in this area and events like TBOB can showcase this talent, getting bands to a wider audience".