INDIE rockers Air Drawn Dagger said the successful fight to save Blackburn rock pub the Sir Charles Napier will inspire fans around the country to save music venues under threat of closure.

Heavy metal legend Rob Halford of Judas Priest made a special guest appearance at the town centre pub when it re-opened its doors last month.

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And on Saturday, Sheffield-based Air Drawn Dagger will play live at the venue which became the country’s first community run rock pub.

“It is a really inspiring story how so many people fought so hard to save the pub because when these venues close, many forever, it is like stealing culture,” said Air Drawn Dagger bassist Lewis Budden.

“We must try and protect these places because many bands begin their careers in pubs like the Sir Charles Napier. It is so important for the community and you can’t beat live music.

“We are really looking forward to going to play in Blackburn this weekend.”

A major public campaign and Blackburn with Darwen Council’s decision to make the Limbrick pub an asset of community value has seen the Sir Charles Napier re-open and once again become a centre for live music in the town.

Air Drawn Dagger are the latest band to play live there. The band’s new three-track EP Ours For The Taking, is both raw and edgy with hook-laden songs and sweetly dark pop punk music.

“I suppose we are a bit of a mish-mash but I kind of like that, it keeps the door ajar,” said Lewis. When you have no ceiling, no rules, then it is a bit more thrilling.

“On the surface we are quite a melodic band, but there’s a huge, rumbling sound there too.”

The band take their name from Lady Macbeth’s emotional outburst and they deal with some heavy duty themes: mental health, loss, romance and spirituality.

Air Drawn Dagger play the Sir Charles Napier on Saturday and Burnley’s Turf Hotel on November 13.

Punk veterans 999 have been confirmed to play at the Sir Charles Napier on October 28 with support from Boredom.