A NEW one-stop record shop is striking a chord in a Stretford shopping centre.

Soundwaves Here We Come came about after Alex Lee, an Urmston based entrepreneur, came runner up in Stretford Mall’s Dragon’s Den-style ‘Win a Shop’ competition.

The competition was won by Sale Moor’s Tracey Gibbons, who was given free unit for her handbag business The Girl for Bags for six months, but Alex Lee’s idea was judged so good he’s been given a unit free of charge for three months.

The 45 year-old father of three is now calling for bands, singers and musicians who want a chance to get make themselves known on the Manchester music scene to get involved in his new venture.

As well as selling records the store will also provide a venue for performers to rehearse, play and record for free.

Alex explained:

“The whole idea is to give something back by encouraging unsigned bands to make a record and enjoy themselves.

“We’ve seen so many cutbacks on youth clubs and the like, but this is all about getting people to express their creativity in a space that costs them nothing, rather than hanging around the streets.

“My ultimate aim is to support creative people and provide a social hub for them. Plus having them playing here will also create a nice atmosphere in the shop.”

“I want the artists who perform in the shop to be as diverse as the collection of records that I sell, and on that note, it’s great to see people of different age groups buying them.

“Vinyl is coming back and the younger generation are spending their money on authentic timeless records by the likes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who.

“It’s not about me, it’s not about the shop - it’s what it stands for - celebrating Manchester’s musical culture and encouraging the next generation.

“If I happen to make money selling records along the way, then it’s a bonus.”