BEFORE these Stranglers move into the country, they're heading into Widnes for their only north west performance.

Paul Roberts and Baz Warne bring The Faith Band to The Wellington, this Saturday, before embarking on a European tour with the legendary Stranglers - the iconic punk band that gave us unforgettable hits like Peaches and Golden Brown.

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Impressed by their last raucous Widnes reception in March, keyboardist Richard Naiff makes it a grand threesome as they perform a selection of dates on the Set In Stone tour.

Paul Roberts maintains the Stranglers legacy that threatened to die out when controversial front man Hugh Cornwell quit in 1990. But contrary to popular public perception, The Stranglers reputation goes from strength to strength.

Never far from the front pages during their heyday, the Stranglers, always dressed in black, to give their music a heavy, dark and moody stamp, can surely lay claim to giving birth to the spiralling recognition of 'Goth-rock'.

But The Faith Band philosophy are a different proposition and turn the notion of touring on its head by waiting summons to different parts of the UK which ensures an intimate environment for gigs.

Naiff has recently returned from a world tour with The Waterboys who people will remember for their infectious hit, The Whole Of The Moon.

Dubbed the man with 14 fingers, he recently added a Church Organ diploma to add to his impressive piano qualifications - an ivory tinkler of the highest order.

Local singer/songwriter Greg Oldfield will be providing his generous support.

Tickets are priced at £2 (limited availability) so contact promoter Geoff Hampson on 0151 510 1306 or e-mail: geoffhampson@hotmail.com Alternatively ring the Wellington on 0151 420 5634.