A PUB in Ponteland is celebrating the continued success of an open mic ‘buskers night’ since starting several months ago.
The Diamond Inn started the buskers night in September after manager Malcolm Conley came up with the idea.
He said: “We’ve consistently provided live entertainment on a weekend for fours years now, showcasing some fantastic regional talent to the locals of Ponteland. 
“I’ve wanted to expand our offerings, as well as giving an opportunity for budding artists to perform and display their skills in an welcoming, non-pressured environment, along with other performers in the same boat.
“We noticed no one in the immediate area was offering anything similar, so we thought we’d be the perfect venue to get this going.”
To make sure it was successful, Malcolm decided to ask experienced busker host and professional musician Lee Brown for help.
He said: “I’ve known Lee for a number of years now. Our paths crossed when he started performing here as one of our regular acts. 
“He’s the perfect compere for a buskers night due to his approachability, musical knowledge, his contacts in the music scene and importantly, his rapport with customers and other artists. 
“ I know Lee is currently active with other successful buskers evenings, so his expertise in guiding us to replicate this is equally important.”
Lee, was thrilled to be asked to host after having nine years of experience hosting buskers around the North-East.
He said: “Since lockdown lifted, the demand for acoustic guitar/vocals has been great. And lots of buskers have sprung up.
“Some more successful than others. Fortunately mine have been well attended and this one is turning out great!”
“We have a full night of music with each performer doing three or even four songs.
“Every level of player is welcome from first time performers to experienced professionals who come to try out new songs and meet with musical friends.
“The atmosphere is really friendly and it always gains positive feedback from customers. 
“The community of players is a like a musical family!”
“It is on every Tuesday and we start at 8pm and finish around 12.”