BIG-HEARTED punks underwent a drastic change of image this week.

Performers better known for their anarchic antics raised £300 for charity in memory of their close friend, Blackburn punk Simon Moran.

Raising the money for muscular dystrophy, Requiem, Boredom, Mexican Overdrive and The Reserved played a special gig at Tony's Ballroom, Blackburn.

The enthusiasm of bands made-up for the low turn out, with opening act Requiem looking like they had found a novel use for their old school uniforms.

Covered in graffiti and well-shredded, the group mixed old ties, dog collars and war paint for a strong retro look.

And as this four-piece were playing only their second gig, the raw edges and short set could easily be forgiven.

College bands have a notoriously short shelf life but if they stick together and allow some of their humour to filter through, with a touch of glam, they could be Blackburn's answer to king Adora.

Boredom seem to have been around for ever and, even though they were added to the bill at the 11th hour, their 14-song set suggested they still rehearse regularly.

Dedicating opening track Eddie's Monkey to a well-known local band manager, I failed to grasp whether it was a tongue-in-cheek reference or genuine venom. Mexican Overdrive were the inspiration for the event.

Getting back together simply for their old friend, they appeared on stage with almost every musician that has ever worked with them over the last decade.

Bassist Mick Duxbury said the idea had been to show the good side of the punk scene and after the success of the night they are now planning to make it annual event.

Last on were The Reserved, who are winning friends on both sides of the Atlantic with their Green Day-influenced skateboard punk.

They playing at the Cellar Bar, Blackburn, on the June 30 are now one of the town's "must see" bands.