A BID by a young musician to play 24 gigs in one week has been cast into doubt because he cannot find enough venues for the charity challenge.

Rob McCulloch, from Astley Bridge, wants to travel the length and breadth of the Bolton borough to play in bars, restaurants, nightclubs, schools and theatres.

But he and his team of helpers have only managed to secure 21 venues, with the first gig to be held this weekend, to raise money for the Keystone Haven children's charity.

The 19-year-old, who hosts workshops at The Phoenix youth centre, now fears that the ambitious task could fall through, and his colleagues are desperately seeking places to accommodate him.

This latest challenge follows Rob's success in singing 24 of his own songs in 24 venues in 48 hours across Greater Manchester.

He has also performed in 24 pubs in under six hours, a feat which he carried out last year. Before that he had completed a challenge at Asda, Astley Bridge, of singing every 30 minutes for 24 hours. Wendy Ellis, artistic director of The Phoenix, on Bark Street, said: "Rob has put so much hard work into this event and is so dedicated to it being a success." Anyone who may be able to help is asked to call Rob or Wendy Ellis on 01204 535861 or 07734 449483.

"If we cannot go through with it or it doesn't work out, we will all be devastated. We simply need three more venues. It would be an awful shame to miss the target by just three.

"Rob is perfectly happy to play in any venue or building as long as he can get an audience and play for a minimum of fifteen minutes.

"He is very adaptable and can play many musical styles, from his own songs to cover versions to suit most tastes. There must be someone out there who can help."

Mrs Ellis is keen to hear from any venues, and has even suggested shopping centres or offices, where Rob could play a short but entertaining lunch-time set.

Venues Rob has already include The Crompton Place shopping centre, Frankie and Benny's restaurant at The Valley, and a number of town centre bars and pubs.

He will also play in Oldham and Manchester and is willing to travel around these areas.