FILMMAKERS and musicians are being urged to enter two competitions run by the Houses of Parliament.

Rock the House and Film The House were set up to help talented up-and-coming artists and raise awareness of the importance of protecting intellectual property rights.

Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier is calling local musicians, filmmakers and venues to enter for a chance to win festival slots, studio time, equipment, and the opportunity to have work premiered in London’s West End.

The competitions, founded by MP Mike Weatherley, have a number of celebrity patrons including Alice Cooper, Queen's Brian May, Rick Wakeman of Yes and Blink 182'sMark Hoppus.

Artists can submit original material to Mr Garnier, who will nominate one entry per competition category with the help of local judges Matt Worley of Stourport’s Worley’s Strings and Things music shop, Scott Garrett from MAS records and last year’s Best Small Venue winners The Boars Head.

A panel of industry experts will then chose the finalists and winners.

Mr Garnier said: “We have fantastic local talent here in Wyre Forest and this competition provides an excellent opportunity to showcase this and for artists to gain much needed exposure.

"Last year’s competition was a real success with Best Small Venue being awarded to the Boars Head in Kidderminster. I am very excited to see what this year has to offer and to listen to all of the entries."

Mr Weatherley said: "Every year the competition gets bigger and better and my thanks go to our patrons, sponsors, judges, the entrants, the MPs who take part.

For more information visit rockthehouseHOC.comand for Film the House visit filmthehouse.com