THE burgeoning reputation of the Bronte Blues Club's very own house band means the group is now attracting "standing room only" audiences.

The Bronte Blues Club Quintet, more commonly known as BBC5, kick-starts the live music at each of the club's monthly concerts.

Club spokesman Maggie Marsden said: "Independently or collectively BBC5 has shared the bill with Millie Jackson, Clarence Carter, Dorothy Moore, Mem Shannon, Matt Schofield, Sherman Robertson, Hamilton Loomis, Mojo Buford and dozens more professional musicians.

"But to the members of the club they are ‘our’ house band whose opening set starts the live music at each of the concerts.

"The fact that the hall is already standing room only for their set, not just for the headliners, speaks volumes."

The group was originally founded as BBC4 for the opening of the club in 2007. It then comprised Michael Ford (vocals, rhythm guitar, harmonica), Jon Crossley (vocals, keyboard), ‘Cool James’ Ferguson (bass guitar) and Tom Los (drums).

Lead guitarist John Watson joined to make it BBC5 in 2008. When work commitments meant relocation for James in 2010 and Tom in 2011 they were replaced by Martyn Paley (bass) and Sean Warters (drums).

Martyn and John, both Bradley-born, have played together in various bands since their teenage years. The band line-up has remained constant since 2011.

Martyn says: "Playing in BBC5 is a humbling experience. Like the marathon runners in elephant and clown suits, we still receive the enthusiastic support of the audience even though they have really come to see Paula Radcliffe, Hussein Bolt or Mo Farah"

Sean added “What can I say...It's great fun! I get the opportunity to play alongside some great musicians playing music that I enjoy."

Band members describe their own style of blues as "eclectic", as it features 50s Chicago blues and 60s Southern soul, New Orleans piano and Big Band jazz.

The Bronte Blues Club will celebrate its "centenary" tomorrow (Nov 7) with its 100th concert at Laycock Village Hall.

The bill includes club favourite Ian Siegal and Mississippi-born singer-songwriter Jimbo Mathus.

Visit bronteblues.com or call 07773 637335 to book tickets.