Battle for air guitar crown

Ten "head-bangers" took to the stage battling to represent Ireland in the Air Guitar World Championships.

Thrashing imaginary guitars and banging their heads to tunes by Led Zeppelin and Metallica among others, the performers gave it their all at The Village in Dublin.

The finalists beat off stiff competition to fight for the right to represent their country at the championships in Oulu, Finland on August 27.

Promoter Cathy Irvine said it was the most unique, exciting night out in Dublin all summer.

"It's the first time Ireland has ever entered the world championships, and it's gone down a storm," she said.

"We had two heats and more than 50 entrants. It's been very entertaining, and it's interesting to watch the entrants. Some take it very seriously, while others get up there and just don't know what to do."

Ms Irvine was convinced that the cream of Irish air guitar talent was showcased at the event.

The crowd cheered and danced as the finalists, dressed as rock stars and priests, sought to emulate their guitar heroes

The judging panel which included radio DJs and record label representatives, admitted they faced some tough choices in picking a winner.