I WAS surprised by how few people turned up to the Bolton Music Showcase AGM.

Although the meeting is really a formality, it was disappointing to see how few of the local musicians bothered to make the trek to Leverhulme Park.

And there are plenty of other voluntary positions for people who have never held a guitar but would like to get involved - whether that's to help the town's music scene or just to improve their CV.

Bolton's music scene has been accused of being cliquey, but this would be the perfect opportunity for new bands and those who don't play regularly in the town to get more involved.

And for those who do, isn't it time to stop moaning about the lack of venues and prestigious events and actually do something to help?

I hope that the committee will see more people come forward over the next few weeks and months.

Because if music lovers in Bolton want to see a local gig somewhere other than in their pub, it's time they got off their backsides and helped themselves.