A live music venue in Barrow has been shortlisted as one of the best in the UK.

The Barrow Underground Music Society was named in the top 10 grassroots venues as part of the Music Week Awards 2024.

Public voting is now open with owner Rob Dunphy hopeful that locals will show their support to see the venue finish as number one.

Upon finding out the news of the success, Rob said: "I was shocked, surprised and overwhelmed - it was just what we needed to keep us doing what we love to do.

"We would be honoured to represent Barrow at such an esteemed music industry event - the team are over the moon to even be on the shortlist with such amazing venues."

And, whilst Rob might have been stunned by the news, he felt it was just reward for the efforts the team has been going to.

"We already knew that we were one of the best grassroots venues and thanks to people like Graham Newby, we have definitely been putting Barrow on the musical map over the last few years," he said.

BUMS will be going up against Cafe Koko in London, The Green Door Store in Brighton, Hare & Hounds of Birmingham, Le Pub in Newport, and Belfast's Oh Yeah Music Centre. 

Other challenges will come from Omeara in the capital, Thekla in Bristol, The Leadmill in Sheffield, and Windmill of Brixton.

Rob believed that the news would help the society gain more attraction at a time when supporting such local venues is 'more important than ever'.

He added: "120 venues closed last year so we need people to support this amazing asset to the town because, without going to gigs, you will never know how amazing new bands actually are.

"YouTube, TikTok and the rest do not let you experience the energy and excitement and talent of the bands - these bands come to Barrow to play in front of music lovers and BUMS provides the space to make these things happen."

You can cast your vote here.