AMATEUR arts groups in Redditch are being invited to enter for this year’s EPIC Awards – the "Oscars" of the voluntary arts world - being run by Voluntary Arts England.

EPIC stands for Engagement, Partnerships, Innovation and Creativity and entries need to demonstrate one or more of these qualities to be considered.

Winning an EPIC Award, or even getting to the finals, provides the opportunity for arts groups to stand out from the crowd and increase visibility in their local community.

Groups that may be seeking funding for their work often find that participating in the award helps to improve their chances of success.

Previous winners have been treated to an all-expenses paid trip to the winners’ reception, this year taking place at the prestigious Media City, Salford.

Winners and runners-up will be in line for gift vouchers, free mentoring, art supplies and cash prizes.

The Arts in Redditch (AIR) Network is writing to arts groups in the town, encouraging them to enter the EPIC awards.

Philip Roberts, secretary of AIR and a member of the Voluntary Arts England advisory group, said: “As a judge in the final round of the 2014 EPIC Awards, I was impressed by the standard of creativity and innovation shown by many of the entries.

"But I am convinced that there are several amateur arts groups in Redditch which are more than capable of matching those standards, and be in with a chance in the finals."

The closing date for entries is March 16 and interested groups can apply online at epicawards.co.uk/how-to-enter.