AN exciting new music club drew more than 60 people to its first meeting at the Ockment Centre last Saturday.

The Okehampton Acoustic Club is a 'not for profit' music venture celebrating the best of local musicians. Anyone who enjoys playing acoustic music can come along and perform in a ten to 20 minute slot, and anyone who just enjoys live music is welcome to attend.

The first meeting last Saturday included a set from the winners of the 2011 Okehampton Battle of the Bands, the Monkey Gland Blues Band. Alternative folk band Mozura, Josie Lloyd and youngsters from Room 13 also performed on the night.

Club founders Phil Bird and Anna Georghiou also played a set. Phil said: 'We are open to all styles of acoustic music, folk, jazz, blues or world music. If you can play it, we want to hear it.

'The club will run on the second Saturday of each month at the Ockment Centre, and we aim to provide a creative platform for acoustic performers from this area and beyond at each session.

'Okehampton United Charities have awarded us a start-up grant, and all musicians and organisers are giving their services for free. The £2.50 entry fee for listeners goes directly into funding the club's costs.

'So whether you are a new talent or an experienced performer, or want to listen, come along and help generate and share in the wealth of music going on in our area.'

The next meeting of the club takes place at the Ockment Centre on March 10. To find out more, visit http://www.okehamptonacousticclub.moonfruit.com">www.okehamptonacousticclub.moonfruit.com or call Phil Bird on 01837 318165.