The town's thriving live music scene has been given a further boost with the launch of a new venue and a website.

Chorley Social Club, in Friday Street, is to become the venue for up-and-coming bands and details of events taking place there will soon be featured on a website, macycommunity.co.uk.

The first gig at the club, previously known as the Labour Club, is on November 12, when former Inspiral Carpets frontman, Tom Hingley, will perform.

He will be supported by Shorn, and garage punk group, The Shoks, who feature British welterweight boxing champion Michael Jennings on drums.

The developments are the result of a partnership between band promoter John Winstanley and South Lancashire Arts Partnership, working togather as Music and Arts for Chorley Youth (MACY).

Mr Winstanley said: "Funds raised from any concerts by the bands will be pooled and used for improved lighting, equipment, merchandise and possible recording time.

"We also have a minibus available for transport to gigs. It's a great tribute to the enthusiasm and creativity of the young people involved that MACY is such a success."

The website, designed by 19-year-old Shorn guitarist Jake Maxwell, is another resource for the bands connected with MACY and will serve as a vehicle for organising gigs and swapping ideas.

Jake said: "There are more and more bands coming through in the Chorley area and having another venue will be a big plus."

The annual meeting of MACY takes place at Chorley Social Club on November 19 at 1pm.