AN ACCRINGTON record studio boss wants to kick-start the town's live music scene by bringing signed and unsigned bands to a town centre venue.

Paul Fox, 34, who runs the Song Machine studio, Back Stanley Street, Accrington, with musician Danny Jones, has already staged two events at the King Street Pub.

Next month he will bring Tom Hingley, former singer with Manchester's Inspiral Carpets, to the venue with his new band, The Lovers.

Paul said: "I just walked into the pub last year and asked if I could put on a band night. They were a bit apprehensive at first but we put six bands on and 200 people came," said Paul.

That was followed in November by another successful event headlined by Clayton-le-Moors band Maupa, who were named Europe's most promising act in a competition run by internet provider Wanadoo last weekend.

Paul said: "Everyone said it would never take off, but 300 people turned up to the last gig. I rang Tom Hingley and asked him if he would do a gig in Accrington because we are building a bit of a scene, and he said yes."

With a third of the tickets already sold, he is also planning a two-day indoor festival on Saturday and Sunday, July 17 and 18, with 20 bands including Burnley favourites the Milltown Brothers and Maupa, already confirmed.

Unsigned bands get a day in the studio to produce a three-track demo instead of pay, and Paul then helps to nurture the talent.

Dave Clay, landlord of King Street Pub, said: "It's great for business and for the community. The main thing is these bands are not doing covers, it's really good. Paul is so enthusiastic I think a lot of the artists respect his passion."

Any bands who would like to take part in future events can contact Paul through the studio website, which is at www.thesongmachine.co.uk

Tom Hingley will play on June 12, supported by three bands, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £8 and are available on 01254 233082.