A GROUP of local musicians have launched a new online session to help keep Wiltshire's thriving music scene alive during the coronavirus lockdown.

Devizes-based Marland Music Management launched the aptly-named Lockdown Sessions, which will feature twice weekly music livestreams to help keep people smiling through the ongoing pandemic.

Ronnie Swift Laurie, founder of Marland Music Management, said: "There is so much talent locally and this is a great opportunity to keep supporting your favourite artists and discover new ones.

"We’ll be inviting local musicians from across Wiltshire to take part in these performances, as a way to keep the music scene alive while gigs are on hold.

"The Lockdown Sessions are the perfect way to spend your evenings, especially during the next couple of weeks."

The first Lockdown Session, held on Wednesday 25 March, has already been viewed more than 3,000 times.

Luke Gittins, one half of popular acoustic duo Burbank, broadcast the session via Facebook Live.

"It was so much fun that I ended up chatting and singing for an hour, instead of the planned 30 minutes, he said.

"My band mate, Ashley Smith, and I have been working closely with Marland Music Management to create a place where musicians and music lovers can still meet during this difficult time.

"Livestreams are a really effective way to bring a little fun into people's lives during the lockdown.

"People can interact and request songs they would like to hear as it goes along.“

The next Lockdown Session will be held on Monday, March 30 at 7pm, and will feature singer-songwriter Lloyd Edwards.

Follow Lockdown Sessions on Facebook for more information. https://www.facebook.com/lockdownsessions/