Musicians have come together in force to help find a new home for a much loved music studio and its renowned owner.

Ranscombe Studios in Rochester has become a mecca for bands and artists across Kent and beyond – helping thousands record their tunes since it was established two decades ago by musician and producer Jim Riley.

Initially built at Ranscombe Farm near Cuxton in 2002, Jim moved the studio to its location beneath the Royal Function Rooms in Star Hill in 2004.

But last year brought news businesses had been given notice to quit the building by the end of the year.

With Jim and the studio facing potential homelessness, Medway's musical community came together in force for a fundraising gig, Rally for Riley, at The Stanley Ballrooms.

Held on Friday January 13, the date might have been unlucky for some but it's hopefully brought some potential good fortune for Ranscombe Studios, raising £6,000 to help Jim move the studio to a new site.

Speaking after the gig he posted on Facebook to thank everyone who had taken part, including USA-based and Minster-born singer-songwriter Ben Jones, who organised the event.

"Words are not enough, but a massive thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Rally for Riley gig last night," said Jim. "Thank you to my friends who donated the the guitar, fuzz box, albums etc for the raffle.

"Thank you to the bands who gave up their time to perform, all of whom are my dear friends, and a big big thank you to my dear friend Ben Jones for making the whole thing possible. I love you all, thank you, and god bless x."

Jim later confirmed the money would go towards internal stud walls, soundproofing and other building modifications needed to install the studios in a new location.

Among those at the gig at Stanley House Ballroom in Chatham, were The Solarflares (Graham Day, Wolf Howard, Allan Crockford), The Masonics, The Len Price 3, The Galileo 7, Treasures of Mexico, Upcdownc, The Lovedays and Theatre Royal – who called the studio a "Medway institution".

The campaign to save the studio even received backing from top DJs, with Marc Riley and BBC6's Steve Lamacq tweeting support for the gig and Radio X's John Kennedy adding: "Support this treasure and keep the Medway music dream alive."

Organiser Ben Jones, who also performed with his old band The Lovedays, thanked everyone who took part.

"The gig was a resounding success" he said. "It was a beautiful night, with the best of Medway’s traits on display; the rallying of the community, the outpouring of love for Jim, and a stellar line up of home grown bands. It was an honour to be a part of."