Church hopes live music will put venue 'on the map'

A church which doubles as a music venue to help pay its bills is hosting a new series of concerts which it hopes will put it on the map.

St Peter's Church in Parkstone often plays host to tribute acts and DJs but a new partnership will see it host some "very special" gigs by international artists.

Church rector, the Reverend Mike Trotman, said the concert series - In the Nave - would be "carefully navigated".

"We don't want anything too sweary," he said. "We need to tap in to what makes this a unique and special place."

The rector, who describes himself as a music lover, said he began exploring the idea of hosting concerts after hearing about Mr Kyps, a popular music venue in Parr Street which closed in 2018.

"There's a real appetite for live music," he said.

"I genuinely think we are doing something very special."

The concerts, for up to 400 people, are being organised by music management firm Warm.

Founder Ali Tillet said he wanted to "put the venue on the map for amazing artists to come and play year in, year out".

The first gig will feature Annie and the Caldwells, a soul band from Mississippi, signed to David Byrne's Luaka Bop record label.

"It's great to have them coming," said Mr Tillet.

"They will definitely bring the energy to the church because they are from a church background in America as well."

Mr Tillet said he was "hugely excited" about the project.

"If we can get the artists I'm potentially going to have in the next 18 months to come and play, they will be moments that, if you are able to get tickets to those shows, you will remember it for a long time."

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