SUPPORTERS of Abingdon United have always known they rock, but now for the first time they will actually be able to headbang on the home turf.

That is because the club is planning to convert itself into a music venue.

Music-loving club members have already planned a string of gigs from touring bands throughout the year.

It will all kick off on Friday, April 24, with a show from U2 cover band U2 Tribe and support from Oxford’s indie rockers 31hours.

Abingdon United marketing officer Mark Cunningham said he wanted to provide Abingdon with something it didn’t have – “a decent, regular music venue”.

The professional marketing consultant and part-time musician said: “The club was formed in 1946 but this is a completely new idea for us.

“There are a couple of us who are very keen music fans and we have this really good function room which sits there a lot of the time not being used.”

The club has already agreed a deal with Didcot PA hire company Archer Productions, which will provide professional sound and lighting.

Mr Cunningham said one of the main aims of starting the venue was to support young musical talent from the Abingdon area.

But he said he had been struggling to recruit local bands who performed their own material, and put out an appeal for more to come forward.

The 52-year-old, who is lead singer for three bands himself, said: “They’ll be treated properly.

“They are providing entertainment so they’ll get their own share of the door take and a dressing room with showers.

“I get to kill two birds with one stone – help local bands and provide something Abingdon doesn’t have – a decent regular music venue.

“We have publicans trying to fill their bars with music and they do a good job but I’m trying to do something different.”

Sam Davies, who plays guitar and bass in 31hours, said he thought the venue sounded like a good idea for Abingdon.

The 18-year-old from Dunmore Road, said: “There’s never been anything like it in Abingdon before. Having a venue so close to home will be great.”

Guitarist and singer Jo Griffin, 19, from Oxford, said: “I think it’s a nice venue, and it’s brand new so it will be a bit of a change.”

All money from ticket sales will go to pay the bands and PA company, and punters will be be able to buy drinks at the bar with profits going to the club.

The gig night will normally be the last Friday of the month. Tickets for the first two nights in April and May will cost £8 and June’s gig will cost £10.

See all listings and contact the venue to arrange support slots at musicatthenorthcourt.weebly.com