EX-Led Zeppelin star Robert Plant has been appointed patron to Kidderminster College's independent record label.

The singer has recently joined Kevyn Gammond, his fellow band member from Priory of Brion, to encourage people to take part in the college's music industry management course and to release work on the college's MAS record label.

Mr Gammond recently completed the Priory of Brion tour with Plant, and returned to Kidderminster College to run the music industry management course and manage the MAS record label.

The two musicians are so keen for talent to come forward that they have given one of their previously unreleased Priory of Brion tracks to the label for a college music compilation due for release at the end of this month.

The release will also feature local bands Crux South, King Rich, Weak 13, Kopna-Kopna and B Movie Heroes.

"The inclusion of the Priory of Brion track on the MAS label release will help raise the profile of our own artists, guarantee airplay and hopefully inspire those out there who eat, sleep and breathe music to get involved with the label," said Mr Gammond.

Students who join the part-time music industry management course at Kidderminster College this September will be responsible for developing new acts for the MAS record label and produce the MAS fanzine.

"As patron of the college's record label I am delighted about the new opportunities that the project creates for upcoming musicians and others with a burning desire to work in the music industry," said Plant.

Bands and artists are also encouraged to come forward with a view to having their work developed with the label for future releases.

"Bands or artists choosing to develop their work with the MAS label will benefit from a framework of resources and support," added Mr Gammond.

"As well as the high-tech facilities and professional tutoring currently available at the college, those involved with the label will gain new rehearsal rooms, recording studios and video production facilities when the college moves to its new purpose-built, town centre building next spring."

As well as the part-time music industry management course, the college also runs BTEC National and Higher National Diplomas in music and music technology.

For more details, contact Kevyn Gammond at Kidderminster College on 01562 820 811.