The Live at the ‘Wich Trials Collective with Band Super Market (credit: Shennel French)

A group of music fanatics has launched a range of family-friendly gigs to stop parents “missing out” when they have children.

Live at the ‘Wich Trials, a collective made up of a local group of families and friends, has launched a set of afternoon gigs at Prestwich Cuckoo which are accessible to all ages. The group formed in 2025 and have created a space where music can be enjoyed without the late-night trek home from town and need for childcare.  

Member Jules James said, “We all like going to gigs and its hard getting babysitters, there’s not a lot of venues in town that allow kids in.” 

Since bringing the music closer to home, they have had a positive response, with regular attendees to their gigs. The kids get to “start off young” and there is a range of activities for them to enjoy. 

Co founder Chi Knott had moved out of the city when starting a family and was looking for a group of people who also enjoy music. 

Chi said: “It’s not just for parents, it’s for everyone , but one of the main things about becoming a parent is that you can lose yourself, miss out on social life, nightlife and music. 

“We wanted to create a space to meet likeminded people, not just people who have kids but are into good music.”

Salford Punk duo Super Market performed at the most recent gig, incorporating a mix of house, pop, indie, hip-hop and post punk. Despite the change from their usual audience, the duo entertained the children with jokes and props. 

Josh Super, one half of supermarket, said: “I think if your music passes the kids test- they have less of a filter. They’re dancing around bopping, people around our age are glued to the floor. 

“But when the kids are running around, picking money off the floor and coming onto the stage and dancing with you, I’d call that a good show.” 

Salford Punk Duo Super Market (credit: Shennel French)

The collective are keen to keep the gigs local but Chi has said, there is an appetite to support more venues, “we want to put on bands that we love in a space that we love”.