BRIT Award nominees Elbow have thrown their support behind the Gig for Gigg concert this Thursday (May 23) to help troubled Bury FC.

Between tours of the US and with a busy summer schedule ahead, the Bury five-piece are taking time out to recover, and celebrate the birth of drummer Rick Jupp's son, Dylan, the first "Elbow baby".

Strict contracts mean they cannot perform at a Gig for Gigg, featuring local bands Budd, Cargo and Fat Cat, but have offered their full support and will be checking out the up-and-coming local talent on the night.

Bass player Pete Turner said: "We are having a bit of time off at home but would love to be there."

Support has also been coming in from all quarters. Manchester music and entertainment website manchesterunsigned.com has agreed to help promote Thursday's gig at the Met, Bury, and bands and singers have also been queuing up to offer their services.

Local band Jupiter Sands have agreed to be on standby for the event, and 15-year-old singer Jordan Hart, whose grandfather, Les, was a former Bury player and manager, will be putting his talents behind the Shakers' cause.

Organiser Ian Gray said: "People have been great about giving their time for free and I am really pleased with the support from the community.

"Offers of help have been coming in but we still need more, especially from any businesses who want to be sponsors."

All proceeds go to the Save our Shakers campaign and everyone involved is taking part free of charge.

Tickets from the Met on 0161 7612216, doors open 7pm.

Anyone who can help, can contact Bury Times music page editor Mike Crutchley on 0161 762 6449.