Bolton is once again placing itself at the heart of the live music scene.

And over the weekend up and coming bands took centre stage at Boltstock.

Staged at The Roundhouse Rocks, new bands were able to showcase their music in a professional setting.

Peter Tate from Smithills put on the event.

Contemporary rock band F3INT, featuring Peter's son Cameron, Willow and Teddy performed, as well as Dead Connections and Polygamy.

As a guitarist and vocalist in ‘The Abandoners’ with his son Cameron and wife Susan, he wanted to put the "young independent music festival" on for original bands, after feeling as though there were huge obstacles for them when getting exposure.

Peter said: “In the 80s and 90s there was a thriving independent music scene in Manchester, so we are trying to take it back there and giving young people a chance to perform original music, meet other bands, and give them that exposure on social media.

The Bolton News:

“We are hoping that the one next year will be even bigger and better.

“We brought the bands in for free and helped give them that audience as well as raising money for a local charity – Bolton Hospice.”

Peter also said that one of the issues for many young musicians starting out is the financial hardships that they may be faced with.

"He added:"It pains me when parents are forced to pay extortionate amounts for stage sessions or performance lessons; it should be free.

“So, this gives bands who can’t afford it a chance to perform on a good stage in front of a crowd.

"Booths Music are great friends and sponsors, who provide superb music lessons, which is where Cameron went."

Peter says that it can be even more challenging for young bands to get booked at venues due to their ages and the age demographic of some of the venues.

The Bolton News:

He added: “There are chances for young band to perform with friends and family there, but not really a chance to stand on stage in front of a crowd.

“This is also about bringing all different social groups together who connect on a very deep basis.”

All the proceeds from the event will go towards Bolton Hospice, which is dear to Peter’s heart, with many of his friends and family being affected by different forms of cancers.

Peter said: “The Roundhouse have been great and have been really supportive.

“It’s unbelievably touching how many people have helped without questioning it.

“The crowd were magnificent, and it was an absolutely fantastic event.

“It’s been a dream for a while to put something on like this, with my passion for music.

“I want to see artists thrive”.

The amount is still being calculated, but it is thought to be at least over £1,000.

Peter is especially keen for youngsters from diverse backgrounds who are already in bands and who want that exposure – to come forward and get involved.

He also says that this would not have been possible without the help and support of his team, Sue Nat, Andy, Mark and Jill.

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.