WERE Razz Taunton's answer to the Spice Girls in 2001.

The County Gazette profiled the band ahead of their appearance at Sayerfest in the issue of July 27, 2001 (below).

The girls started the band as a hobby but they were soon offered public performances and had high hopes of a record deal.

Were you in Razz? Do you know any of the members? Either way, we'd love to hear from you. Call 01823 365022 or email newsdesk@somersetcountygazette.co.uk

MEET Razz – Taunton’s new all-girl band.

Razz are fun fun-loving girls, all from the county town, who share the same love of music and singing.

Razz will be among a dozen live bands taking part in Sayerfest 2001 on September 28 at Taunton Rugby Club – a musical celebration in memory of popular local singer Chris Sayer.

Tickets are £5 on the door or in advance from the Somerset County Gazette, Taunton Library or on 01823 333215, with proceeds to St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice.

Razz are: Chrystal Sparks, 17, the bubbly, slightly mad performing arts student from SCAT; Laura Bradshaw, also 17, who attends Richard Huish College, the strong organiser of the group who never fails to amuse with her exotic dance moves; Dawn Strawbridge, 16, the smiley laid-back but confident group member who is moving to Richard Huish this year; Gemma Hepple, 15, the amusing choreographer of the group who is in her final year at Ladymead, and Belle Morley, 13, who goes to Ladymead, the youngest and quietest member of the group … but when she is in stage there is no stopping her!

The group came together at Westside Music Centre about 18 months ago when they started group signing lessons with Sharon Roulstone.

It began as a hobby but fairly soon they were offered public performances including the Posthouse Forte in Taunton and a variety show organised by Orchard FM.

Their varied style of music includes modern numbers by artists such as Brittany Spears and All Saints and classics by Tina Turner and Abba. They now hope to record an album.

Two of the band members have personal reasons to support the hospice. Laura’s mother died of cancer in January 2000 and she appreciates the help the hospice gave in supporting her and her family. Belle’s Granddad also was helped by the hospice through the illness.