AN EAST Lancashire record company has been named ‘label of the week’ by BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens.

Colne-based Modern English Records, which also has studios in the town, has gone from ‘strength to strength’ since it was set up earlier this year.

Huw, who has garnered a reputation for championing new music and ground-breaking indie acts, gave the label the honorary title on his show last week.

And other renowned BBC DJs, including Colin Murray, Steve Lamacq and Lauren Laverne, have all given national exposure to Modern English act Micky P Kerr, by providing his debut single Puppy Eyes with a considerable amount of airplay.

Now bosses at the label have said they are aiming for global success in the near future.

As well as Leeds-based Micky P Kerr, the label also has three other acts, including The Cordels, Virginmarys and Bells for René.

Radio 1 DJ Rob da Bank made Micky’s single his ‘tip’ describing it as ‘absolutely brilliant’ and XFM DJ Jim Gellatly said it was simply ‘amazing.’ And London-based singer Emmy the Great, who has recorded material at the Modern English studios, in Colne, has been celebrated by Mark Radcliffe of the Radcliffe and Maconie Show on BBC Radio 2.

Bruce Thomas, the company’s founder and director, said their achievements prove ‘beyond any reasonable doubt’ that northern labels can enjoy as much success as their southern equivalents.

He said: “It’s all about the talent and having belief in what you’re doing. It is very possible for local bands to make it.”

Modern English is run by Bruce along with a radio promoter and a label owner, both based in Manchester.

In April chart-topping singer Simon Webbe, formerly of boy band Blue, recorded some of his album in their Colne studios, under the supervision of Christian and Nicky Madden, two members of Burnley indie band The Earlies.

Bruce, who has been involved in the local music scene for two decades, said he would like to leave a ‘legacy’ of quality music behind.

He added: “The last musical revolution happened in the 60s when there were loads of quality bands but that isn’t happening now.

"I would like to be a part of the second big revolution.

“We would like to remain an Indie label and are hoping to head to Japan and America next year.”