A NEW emo and punk music night is being launched by a local venue this weekend.

DJ Billy McLellan has teamed up with the owners of Lithgows on Cathcart Street to run the new night.

Lithgows was previously known for its dance events but the new team at the helm are now keen to 'change the culture' of the venue to usher in its new era.

Billy was approached by one of Lithgows' owners, Astyn Findlay, and said he was delighted to get involved.

He said: "There's definitely a market for a night like this in Inverclyde.

"It's still a prominent genre and this kind of music has had a bit of a resurgence lately.

"It's a bit of a misunderstood culture and style of music.

"People think it's all sad tunes but there are some really poppy, catchy songs with very emotional lyrics."

Billy, 36, says he'll be playing a whole range of emo tunes, from old school bands like My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy right through to Creeper and Scottish stars Twin Atlantic.

Billy added: "I went to the Cathouse for years and I always wished there was something closer to home like this to save me going up to Glasgow.

"We want to reach everyone and make it really inclusive.

"I'm really enthusiastic about it and love the music."

Owner Astyn says no other venue in Inverclyde is catering for emo and punk music fans.

She added: "I'm part of the alternative community and I just thought it would be good to have somewhere to enjoy that style of music.

"Bringing inclusivity into the pub is very important to me.

"We strive to bring in all generations, people from different scenes and communities, and to make the pub welcoming for everyone."

The new night kicks off at 8pm on Saturday.