Bootle is ready to rock and roll after a major new music and arts venue officially launched last night.

Salt and Tar made its long-awaited debut with a sun-soaked event overlooking the canal in Bootle town centre.

To mark the occasion, surprise guests Red Rum Club performed live to an excited crowd who were able to enjoy an evening of music, family activities and plentiful street food options.

The launch party represented the opening salvo in a jam-packed events programme this weekend including the Bootle International Festival which will feature worldwide cuisine and a host of live entertainment The event has been organised by more than 15 local community groups and entry is open and free to everyone.

In addition, guests will also be able to see Bollywood dancing, Congolese music and public workshops put on by the Ukrainian Welcome Centre. Sunday will see more talent from Bootle and Beyond who are all set to take to the stage as part of Salt and Tar’s Live Lounge.

Artists will have the opportunity to share their music with the public in the same venue as local legends Red Rum Club and break in the stage [ie open] for Tom Jones, who will perform later this year.

Red Rum Club have been a pivotal part of getting Salt and Tar opened and have worked extensively with Sefton Council and other stakeholders - they even have a huge mural up on the wall overlooking the performance space.

Francis Doran is the lead singer of Red Rum Club and he spoke passionately about the importance of venues such as Salt and Tar. He said: "We’re celebrating the launch here today and the journey we’ve been on to get to this point.