AN AWARD-WINNING drumming group is gearing up to make some noise.

The Staffordshire Moorlands African Drumming Project (SMADP) will take part in an acoustic session on Saturday night.

The evening will feature performances by drumming groups Mandiani and Kamara with special guests Maitre Samsou and Diane Camara, multi-instrumentalist Gavin Spray, Stephen Harley, and didgeridoo-playing Andy Brereton.

Leek-based SMADP, which performs under the name of Mandiani, relies on members' subscriptions, performing fees and support from the community to keep going.

SMADP, which started in 2002 and currently has 10 members, aims to bring the rhythms of West Africa to a wider public.

Drummer Claire Wyza said: "We provide an opportunity for people to experience music from a different culture."

SMADP won the 'celebrating diversity' gong and a cash prize at the Diversity Awards held at Staffordshire University in February 2006.

The group meet every Thursday from 7.30pm until 9.30pm at The Central Club.

Sessions are led by David Woolley from Joliba Drum School, in Stoke-on-Trent.

Claire added: "We are a friendly bunch who welcome new members from the age of 16, whatever their skills, from complete beginner to seasoned drummer."

The SMADP acoustic night, for audiences aged 12 and upwards, will be at The Central Club, in Market Street, Leek, on Saturday March 13 at 9pm. Admission is £3.

Proceeds from the event will go towards helping both Mandiani and Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF).

To find out more about SMADP contact Claire on 01538 387236.