AN 11-year-old internet whizz kid who set about organising a charity music festival in his garage was so successful his mum found him a proper venue for it in a city centre pub.

Marcus Barnett, a pupil at Euxton CE School, used the world wide web to book five bands to play at the event in aid of Derian House Children's Hospice.

But when his mum Ann found out what was planned for the garage of their family home in Mallom Avenue, Euxton, just four weeks before the big night was due to be held it was too late to call it off.

"There was no way he was going to hold it in our garage," said Ann, a teacher. "I told him I'd organise a venue. He'd worked so hard, I couldn't believe he had done it all."

SK8 Fest, took place at Strettles Bar, Preston, last Friday night, where folk packed in to see groups Break Nek, Geoffrey Bungle, Maptie, Let's Not Lose Mars to the Commies and Semi-Smalls, all of which played for free.

Marcus's dad Steve, an interior designer, said: "The bands couldn't believe Marcus was the organiser. They said how well he put himself across over the internet which is a frightening prospect because who knows what he will do next -- he could be organising the next Glastonbury and we wouldn't know a thing about it!"

Marcus's skills have also impressed the arts development officer at Chorley Borough Council, and he may be in demand next year.

Chris Mellor said: "The lad will go far, what entrepreneurial spirit! We're happy to use him for next year's festival if he's got that level of skill at 11. Local bands should be knocking on his door."

Marcus, a member of the Chorley band Testify, said: "It started one night when I was surfing. I emailed all the bands that I knew of and asked them if they would be willing to play. Within a couple of weeks I had enough interest to be able to organise the festival."

He said he chose Derian House because he had visited there a few years earlier and realised what a good job they do there.

In all only £80 was raised because it was not possible to charge an entrance fee, but staff at Derian House were delighted.

Trevor Briggs, general manager at the hospice, said: "It's a fantastic achievement for somebody so young and is generosity of spirit. Here we have a young lad helping out other children which is a marvellous thing. We are very grateful to him."

Manager of Strettle's, Stuart Wilkinson, said the event attracted about 50 people. He said: "It is unbelievable that a boy of his age arranged such an event. The bands were a hit with the crowd and we'd be happy to host any more of his events."