MUSIC fans are being taken on a trip down memory lane with a star-studded free gig to celebrate Inverclyde's rich cultural heritage.

Local legends The Cuban Heels are reforming especially for the 'Spirit of Punk' show at the Beacon next Friday to celebrate the end of a nine-month project led by charity RIG Arts.

They will be joined by Love and Money frontman James Grant, Greenock's own George Miller and one of the area's newest live acts, up-and-coming band Slix.

The gig is to mark the end of a successful National Lottery-funded project exploring the diverse and dynamic Inverclyde music scene of the 1970s and '80s, with special recognition of the local punk trendsetters.

There will also be exhibitions of images and artefacts from the era courtesy of Greenock-born photographer Roddy McKenzie and researcher Simon Dell, who lives in Skelmorlie.

Karen Patton Orr, from RIG Arts, said: "We've just about sold out the Beacon, which is amazing.

"The whole project has exceeded our expectations."

The idea was inspired by late Inverclyde photographer and history enthusiast Louie Pastore, who sadly passed away a fortnight ago, on the back of his significant contributions to RIG's 'Up the Broomy' series exploring the history of Broomhill.

There will be a tribute to Louie at the show.

Inspiration was also taken from researcher Simon's successful 'From the Port to the Bridge' exhibition and gig at the Beacon in October last year paying homage to Port Glasgow punk pioneers Thomas Wishart and the late Robert Donnachie, aka Thomas Leer and Robert Rental.

Project manager Karen said: "We felt there was much more to be explored.

"It's unbelievable how many bands there were back then and you see Telegraph articles from the time with lists of all the live venues there were.

"There were so many places that did live music that you don't get now. "With Roddy's photos it's not generic, it's actual photos of the local scene and people who lived here in the '70s and '80s and that 'do it yourself' underground indie-punk scene."

During the course of the project, which started in October last year, RIG held workshops involving local residents and school pupils.

There will also be a film produced and online materials.

For tickets to the 'Spirit of Punk' show at the Beacon on Friday July 12, visit www.beaconartscentre.co.uk or call 723723.