ACOUSTIC and roots music returns to a Manningtree pub this evening with two bands providing an enticing mixture of blues tunes.

After a winter break, the Red Lion, in South Street, will resume hosting its popular events upstairs in the function room.

Previous favourites the Fran McGillivray Band and Colchester newcomers the Hokum Boys will hit the stage for an evening of exciting sounds.

Fran McGillivray and Mike Burke are always popular at the Red Lion and have previously appeared as a duo.

In support will be the Hokum Boys, who are rapidly making a name for themselves in the area with their entertaining and accomplished act.

Paul Munson, organiser, said: “We hold these evenings as a bit of a community service really and because we think there are plenty of local musicians who deserve an audience.

“We try to provide bands and artists from all over the country mixed with local groups as well.

“The Hokum Boys are from Colchester and they really are a very good band.”

He added: “We go to see lots of different gigs and show and when we see something we like, we decide if it would be suitable and ask.

“We saw them in Chelmsford and thought they would make for an excellent support act here.

“They were only too pleased to do it and one of the boys actually had been to one of our previous evenings at the Red Lion.”

Paul continued: “Fran and Mike have played here three times before, but not for three or four years.

“They are very accomplished musicians and as we wanted to do something slightly different this time, they have brought their band along as well.”

Tickets for the event, which starts from 8pm, cost £10 in advance and are available from the Red Lion, from redlionmanningtree.co.uk or on 01206 391880.