SOME parents would worry if their teenage child announced they were to embark on a heavy metal tour of the US.

But Witney’s Eric Marshall, 48, said Twisted State of Mind’s stateside jaunt is helping the trio to mature and develop.

Luke Ashby, Ben Comley and Damon Marshall – all 14 and from Witney – formed three years ago and have been growing in reputation ever since.

Damon and Luke go to Wood Green school while Ben attends Henry Box school.

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The boys, who are influenced by the likes of Iron Maiden, Trivium and Slipknot, are due to play shows in Philadelphia and New Jersey and appear on local radio.

They have been invited to headline the SavFest metal festival at the ICAC Hall in Gloucester, New Jersey, on October 18.

They will also play Philadelphia’s The Legendary Dobbs club where the likes of Nirvana, Green Day and Pearl Jam rocked out.

Damon Marshall said: “We are taking time out of school to go to the US but our parents are not worried as they know we are learning so much when travelling and playing these gigs.”

Dad Eric, an accountant, said: “I’m behind it 100 per cent, because what I’m seeing is they are getting an education they just won’t get in school.

“They have to conduct themselves in a professional manner, work together to write songs and compose set lists and interact with venue owners and promoters.

“They’ve been gigging since they were 11 and they just don’t understand fear – they seem to have developed a way to be comfortable around people of all ages.”

Guitarist Luke said: “We were amazed to be asked back to the US again.

“All the bands are seasoned pros who have been gigging all their lives and we are so young, but they seem to really like our stuff so it will be cool to hang out with such great bands like Decypher, Faith or Fear and Old Man Savage. They are real rock royalty in the US.”

UK-based DJ Alan Savill noticed the boys two years ago and invited them to play at SavFest, which he organises in aid of his charity ‘Ian’s Chain’.

Alan’s son Ian took his own life in 2012 and the charity provides support for those grieving after losing a loved one to suicide.

The Witney teenagers have developed a close working relationship with Alan’s charity, playing at many of their events.

Damon said: “We feel proud to help our friend Alan Savill and his charity, as it is something close to our hearts. Ian Savill was only a young guy and it’s such a shame someone so young should feel so helpless that he takes his own life. If our playing in the SavFest USA helps in any way it will make us all very happy.”

The trio need to raise £5,000 in total for their trip, including flights across the Atlantic, accommodation and living expenses.

Ahiya Mohammed, who owns Curry Paradise in High Street, Witney, has organised a curry night on October 7 to help pay for the trip. The fundraiser starts at 7.30pm.

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