A GROUP of young Bolton musicians, who swapped Smithills for Tenerife, has hit the top -- supporting TV comedy stars The Grumbleweeds.

In March the BEN revealed that seven band members -- all in their early 20s and who form the group Checkmate -- had jetted off to the Canaries holiday island in their search for musical stardom.

Just months into their trip the group has been snapped up to appear on the same bill as the comic group, famous from many TV appearances over the years.

Tommy Govan, bass player and lead singer with the soul group, said the Grumbleweeds gig had been one of their best bookings so far. He added: "The band has definitely had more ups than downs. Checkmate has gone from strength to strength.

"The gig with the Grumbleweeds has got to rank as one of our best. They were really nice guys, down to earth and very supportive of us.

"It's been a fantastic trip since we came out here. It's not like a nine to five job. We're doing something that we enjoy so much."

The group are all former members of Smithills School band and were taught by award-winning teacher Chris Wormald.

Speaking when the lads prepared to make their bid for stardom in March, Mr Wormald said: "I think this is excellent. I'm really thrilled for them."

Since arriving at the holiday hotspot, the group has also played gigs at top resort hotels in Playa de las Americas and Los Christianos.

The group has also hit Tenerife's radio waves, with a 30-minute spot playing soul music on Waves FM, the island's biggest English language station.

Their success came after most of the band members handed in their notices for their full-time jobs to enjoy the sun, sand and stardom of the popular resort island.

The group is made up of a quantity surveyor, post office worker, financial adviser and health authority employee.

Later this month the group will enjoy a week-long break from their six-gigs-a-week itinerary to allow Tommy to attend a graduation ceremony at Paul McCartney's "Fame" school in Liverpool.

The 20-year-old studied drums and performing arts at the academy and will receive his certificate from the former Beatle.