A DISUSED building in Colne has been turned into a music centre in a bid to unearth the next big thing.

Music Alive was due to be officially opened today in the Waterbridge Resource Centre, Rigby Street, giving budding musicians somewhere to practise.

Those behind the scheme said they hoped the centre would kickstart a new era in Pendle's music scene.

Brian Holmes, chairman of Music Alive, said: "The prime objective of this project is to encourage and develop the wealth of local, often hidden, young musical talent in Pendle."

Old and disused classrooms have been turned into rehearsal and recording studios. Instruments and mixing desks are available for young musicians.

The centre has cost £20,000 and was funded by Youth Action Trust and the council.

It is hoped to set up music classes and employ session musicians.

Lee Francis of Pendle band Monsieur Funk, which has been practising at Music Alive, said: "This rehearsal space is great it has given us the chance to improve our playing and develop as a band.

"We are now working towards recording one of our own songs in the recording studio to create our first demo CD."

Petra Wilson, council community development worker, added: "Who knows we may have the next Arctic Monkeys or Kaiser Chiefs in our midst."

To use Music Alive, contact Brian Holmes on 07814 677924.