Rocker Glenn Hughes offers help for JB's

An international rock star from the Midlands today offered to stage a concert to help raise funds for crisis-hit Black Country music club JB's.

Cannock-born Glenn Hughes, former bassist and singer with Deep Purple, Trapeze and Black Sabbath, told how the club in Castle Hill, Dudley, helped launch his career - and pledged the support of his new supergroup Black Country Communion.

"This beautiful club was the birthplace for me, and where I started out in Britain," he said.

"I would do anything to help, and the group will help in any way it can, simply because of the heritage it holds for me and us as a group. If they need someone to play there and raise awareness, you can count me in to do that."

JB's was put into administration at the start of the month by owners Sam and Sue Jukes, after racking up debts of £450,000. They said they had been hit by the recession and bad weather in January did not help. The business, including the premises, is on the market for £350,000.

The club has helped launch the careers of bands such as Led Zepplin, Manic Street Preachers, and The Stone Roses during its 42-year history.

Taking a break from a hectic rehearsal schedule with Black Country Communion, who release album Black Country on Monday, Hughes said the staff had always been supportive and generous to bands looking to break into the big-time.

"We all, in Trapeze, absolutely loved it," he said.

"They let us rehearse there and do our pre-tour shows, they were always very gracious to us.

"For people from the Black Country, and outside the Black Country too, this is a place where many, many bands made their mark."

He said Dudley-born BCC bandmate Jason Bonham also held the club close to his heart as it was where his father - Zeppelin drummer John Bonham - started out as well. The band also features keyboardist Derek Sherinian and guitarist Joe Bonamassa.

"I'm one of those guys who wants to keep local businesses alive, and keep the heritage of what was once an amazing club open to people who like good music," added Hughes.

Administrator John Travers, from Stourbridge-based John D Travers & Co, said having big names play the venue would be a "shot in the arm" for the club.

"It would bring people through the doors and help raise awareness," he added.

The club is open, with Mr and Mrs Jukes running it until Christmas.

Band bookings are being honoured while efforts are made to sell it as a going concern.