BRONTË Blues Club regulars still talk in hushed tones about Kyla Brox’s latest blistering appearance earlier this year.

There have been many equally memorable performances in the seven years since the ‘BBC’ opened.

Now club members are looking looking as they prepare for their “centenary season’ beginning on September 12.

During the next 12 months the club will see its 100th gig – specifically on November 7 this year – as usual to be held at Laycock Village Hall.

Club spokesman Maggie Marsden said members were anticipating a season of multi-award-winning acts of the calibre of Earl Thomas, Grainne Duffy, Paddy Milner and Hideaway Bridges.

Maggie said: “Demand for membership has never been higher, with 160 already signed up. Membership is limited to 200, so if you want to join don’t delay.”

“When the club opened in 2007 it promised to bring the best blues performers from across the world to Laycock.

“Over half of the acts that have appeared since have come from outside the UK, undermining its success as a truly international venue.

“Our programmers tour the most prestigious R&B festivals to source the best talent, previous seasons have witnessed fabulous award-winning acts.”

Lil’ Jimmy Reid kicks off the 8th Brontë Blues Club season on September 12.

Maggie said: “He is one of the last links to the classic blues stars of the post-war era and is a proper ‘down-home, real-deal’ bluesman.

The November 7 gig will see Ian Siegal, voted Best European Blues Artist, and Mississippi-born singer-songwriter JimmyMathus, kick off their Roots To The Core toor.

Maggie said: “This high-profile event is sure to be in great demand from blues fans across the UK and will be a great way to celebrate this BBC landmark.”

Maggie paid tribute to the club’s house band, BBC Five, fronted by vocalist Michael Ford and including lead guitarist John Watson, bassist Prof Martyn Paley, keyboard player Jon Crossley and drummer Sean Waters.

Maggie said: “They have been a constant fixture since the Brontë Blues Club began.

“They write much of their own music as well as covering old-style blues songs, and their musicianship, combined with their wit and charm, help to create a good-humoured start to the gigs.”

Email Chris and RosOwens on branwell@bronteblues.com to join the club, or buy one-off tickets by visiting bronteblues.com visiting the Turkey Inn at Goose Eye.