A NEW free music event is going from strength to strength.

The White Hart at Bridestowe has been hosting monthly open mic nights since January.

Musician John Kerry launched the open mic nights on the fourth Sunday of each month to encourage local talent of any age, gender or style to take to the microphone and entertain patrons in the pub's Widgery Bar.

'Irish' Joe Ward from Northlew has already performed at the open mic nights. He said: 'I think the place has great atmosphere and I'll be returning to play again whenever I can.'

Each month a specially invited guest takes to the stage. On Sunday, March 23 Jess McAllister will perform. She has recently been touring abroad having released her CD 'Painted Faces'.

Other performers already asking to play on the night are the Dodgy Jammers, Jim Pates and John Kerry, and several drop in performers are also expected.

The evening is free to customers, with a jug passed around for donations to provide performers' drinks.

The music begins at 8.30pm and the pub also takes meal bookings for those who want to make a night of it.

Future guests and information can be found online at http://www.whitehartbridestowe.co.uk">www.whitehartbridestowe.co.uk