SOME of the big names on the Manchester music scene have sharpened their claws on its stage.

And now Blind Tiger prepares to turn the spotlight on itself as it celebrates five years in Bolton.

Over the last few years the venue has provided a local platform for acts now receiving praise on the national stage.

Among those to appear at the venue in Nelson Square are Stockport’s Blossoms – who audiences may have spotted playing the Pyramid stage in Glastonbury last month – and the anarchic Cabbage, one of the BBC’s Sounds of 2017.

The indie and rock bar has also nurtured home-grown talent, with Bolton favourites Jade Assembly often frequenting its stage. Rising stars Jordan Allen played one of their very first gigs at the venue.

Events and marketing manager Dawn Price said: “We have had so many incredible moments of music over the last five years at the Blind Tiger including annual festivals, such as the B fest charity event and the yearly Tigerfest to celebrate our birthdays being in Bolton.

“The quality of musicians and bands we have had through the doors is outstanding. We have live music every week and a monthly Indie Rocks event with bands from across the UK performing.

“The Blind Tiger has given a platform for some people to perform their first ever gigs, such as Elvis tribute, Tommy Holland who performed for the first time in 2015 and is now selling out 3,000 capacity shows.

“Our resident DJs are just as passionate about music and play local bands’ music and new releases, as well as all the anthems indie rock fans love.”

On August 19, Blind Tiger will welcome The Twang and Dead Sea Skulls drummer Ash Sheehan to headline a night of music to mark the fifth anniversary.

Alongside Ash, post-punk trio Ist Ist also make the billing with Boltonians Cleargreen and Dear CAROLINE.

Live music will be followed by a club night, and the venue is putting on a free bar from 7pm till 9pm.

Dawn added: “We are really making a party of it to celebrate.”

Owner of the Blind Tiger bars, which was founded in Bury 13 years ago, James Morris, said: “This Tigerfest is our way of saying a massive thank you to all of the bands and all the loyal customers that we have had through the doors over the years.