MUSICIANS and music promoters in Plymouth have made an audacious bid to buy the city's famous Cooperage nightspot.

So far the 'Save The Cooperage' group has raised £110 towards the asking price, which is believed to be £295,000-plus.

The three-storey building, with its distinctive Tudor-style frontage – which has played host to some of the biggest names in music – is due to go under the hammer at the St Mellion International Resort, on February 23.

But the campaign group's members say even if they don't raise enough to buy the former venue, they will at least have highlighted the lack of live music venues in Plymouth.

"We want to buy The Cooperage, but if we don't get it – which is a high possibility – hopefully we can raise enough money to fund and open a new venue," said Matthew Dore who is helping to lead the campaign.

"So far we've raised £110, but we have our main event coming up on February 16.

"It's really about raising the awareness of the lack of venues in Plymouth. Plymouth used to have a vibrant music scene with loads of places to perform in, but sadly it's died off."

To raise funds for the campaign Matthew and his team have organised a day of music across Plymouth's city centre.

About 20 acts have so far been confirmed to appear, with more set to confirm. Venues include the Place du Brest, Drake Circus shopping centre, Voodoo Lounge and Number 8.

To get involved email skymindstudios@googlemail.com or visit Facebook and search for 'Save The Cooperage'.