TALANTED bands will be performing a collaborative evening gig at a popular Manningtree venue next month.

On December 2, bands of various genres will be playing a late night gig full of original songs and covers.

Upstairs at the Red Lion, in South Street, three local talented bands will be performing from 8pm until 11pm.

Opening the night will be Handbags & Gladrags, a quartet consisting of Mark Hull on guitar and vocals, Suzie Bishop on the violin, Kevin Wiggins on bass and their newest addition of Eddie Edwards on drums.

This band will be playing original songs and choice covers, as well as a Christmas number.

Mel & Marcel, also known as Melanie Winning and Marcel McClarnon of Manningtree & Man In Tree Records, will be the second act of the evening with their original songs about war, growing old, scars, anger and Sinead O'Connor.

Closing the evening will be hosts The Groovy Arts Club Band, consisting of Mark Hull on guitar, Marcel McClarnon on bass, Eddie Edwards on drums and David Stephenson on vocals and even the harmonica.

Known for their energetic sets, their most recent at HMV in Colchester, the band celebrates 60s and 70s music with original songs plus a few appropriate covers.

Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets are £10 or two for £15 which can be either bought on the door or online at: www.redlionmanningtree.co.uk