First band for new Little Civic

Preparations are in place for Saturday's opening of Wolverhampton's new Little Civic - and here is the first band to appear.

Point Blank - three 16-year-olds from Stafford - debut at the Broad Street venue's first night in a Battle of the Bands contest.

Jonn Penney, of the Civic Hall, said: "We are delighted the very first act to step on to the stage at our new venue will be such a young local band.

"This venue is all about helping to nurture young talent and offering local bands a break, as well as attracting quality acts from across the country, so it's a perfect start."

The punk rockers will be followed by Mezzatonic, from Bilston; White Rose, from Burntwood; Run Fast Turn Left, from Shrewsbury, and 12 Gauge from Gornal.

Will McKeown, Point Blank lead singer, said: "It's a great opportunity to be playing such a prestigious venue."

The re-located 500-capacity venue, previously in North Street, has hi-tech equipment as well as a new bar and fully equipped backstage area.

Battle of the Bands heats run through January and February with semi-finals in February and March and a final at the Wulfrun Hall on Saturday April 17. Winners get £1,000, a free recording session at M2 Studio and a professional photoshoot.