BURY'S live arts venue, The Met, has a 'spring' in its step thanks to a new programme of events which demonstrate a broadening of the venue's horizons.

The Met will be offering more touring fringe theatre, the best of national and regional comedy and a mix of legends in folk, blues and rock throughout the spring months.

This is in addition to children's entertainment, workshops and participatory activities including acoustic sessions, theatre, dance and music making lessons.

Touring performing arts set to visit are split into theatre, live music, comedy and family shows.

Here are a pick of some of the highlights:

Theatre -- visiting productions will include Spike Theatre's BLT, Pip Uttons' The Troy Orbinson Story, Owen ONeill's My Son the Footballer, Talia Theatre's Seven Assilon Place, Brighton Theatre Event's Ronaldo Ate My Credit Card, and Jaleo Flamenco and English Pocket Opera Company's Carmen.

Live Music -- performers are Dougie MacLean, Alan Price, Silent Partner (ex- Northside), The Colin Reid Trio, Ronnie Drew, Nine below Zero, Cara Dillon, Niamh Parsons, The Oldham Tinkers and Bernard Wrigley, Hugh Cornwell, Laura Zakian, Goldblade, The Paperboys and Maddy Prior. In addition, The Met will host the Third Bury Blues Festival and monthly Friday night jazz.

Comedy -- familiar faces are Dominic Holland, Dave Spikey, Marion & Geoff, Linda Smith and Owen ONeill. Also featured are Big Value Comedy Nights.

Family shows geared towards youngsters are Postman Pat, Robin Hood, The Magic Harp,Thumbelina ,The Railway Children and Something Else.

Free brochures for The Met are available from the ticket office on 0161 761 2216 or visit www.themet.biz to download a pdf version.