A YORK venue which is playing its part in celebrating the British music industry has been backed by one of the city’s MPs.

Fibbers has become one of the UK’s longest-serving live music venues since opening in 1992 and is part of Independent Venue Week (IDW), which was celebrated at the Stonebow venue on Sunday when A Joker’s Rage, Glass Caves and Blind Eye performed.

IDW showcases venues which provide a platform for new artists and somewhere for fans to enjoy live music.

York Central MP Hugh Bayley, who visited Fibbers on Friday, said: “Without live music, there’d soon be no music at all and for the British music industry to grow and thrive, musicians need to gain experience and confidence.

"Independent venues are at the heart of their development, but it’s hard for them to survive as they have to compete against big sponsor-backed venues and bands face increasing touring costs. IDW is a great opportunity for people who love music to show their support and appreciation for small venues and the bands they help create.”