YOUNG musician Matt Marsh is a step closer to his dream of becoming a rock star.

For the 15-year-old has been named as one of the final ten contestants in XFM’s ‘Rock School’ competition.

Matt submitted his version of Valerie, by The Zutons, where he played all the instruments and sang.

His track was chosen by DJ Clint Boon as being among the ten best from the many submitted to the third annual contest.

Matt, who has played guitar since he was eight years old, was the only solo artist to be chosen for the final round.

His proud dad, Tony, of Mount Pleasant, Nangreaves, said: “Matt was absolutely delighted when he found out he had reached the final ten.

“He has done really well to get to this stage and it’s a good chance for him to get some exposure. I think he’s just as good as the bands that have been chosen.”

Matt and the other finalists will have their tracks played on XFM from Monday and members of the public will be able to vote for their favourite.

The three acts with the most votes will perform for a panel of judges in a live final on December 10 at The Roadhouse in Manchester.

The competition winner will receive £1,000 of music equipment for their school, a day in a recording studio, a professional photo shoot, and new clothes.

They will also be mentored by Clint Boon, who rose to fame as a member of “Madchester” band Inspiral Carpets.

But first Matt needs to get enough votes from the public to secure a place in the live final, which will be broadcast on XFM.

Tony said: “Matt is really talented and has already written about 50 songs. I really think he has a good chance of winning a competition. He needs everyone to get behind him though. It’s important that he gets lots of votes to make a difference.”

Anyone wishing to here Matt’s song or find out more about the competition can log on to xfm.co.uk/rockschool2008