Sherlock Holmes director Guy Ritchie has launched his own record label named after the London boozer he owns, The Punchbowl.

Madonna's ex husband says he is “excited” at forming Punchbowl Recordings – an offshoot of Universal - and signing his first act The Punchbowl Band.

He enthused to The Sun: "It's exciting to venture into the music industry. It's a tough place but I've seen this band connect with people. They have every chance of being embraced by a wider audience."

The Punchbowl Band, who can be heard on the Sherlock Holmes soundtrack, will release their first record through the imprint on March 1.

(by Scott Colothan)