FOR the first time in its history Warrington Rhythm and Blues club is putting its faith in a tribute band.

But this Friday's show at Warrington Town FC is no ordinary sound-a-like imposter.

Barry Barnes is a dyed-in-the-wool Rory Gallagher fan and has even secured the blessing of the legend's brother and manager, Donal, for his heartfelt tribute act Sinnerboy.

Each year for the past eight, Barry has been behind the Rory Gallagher tribute gig at Dukinfield, which attracts hundreds of devotees from across the UK and further afield.

Donal Gallagher caught Sinnerboy at

the 2002 Rory show, where he gave the boys his ringing endorsement.

He's joined on stage in Sinnerboy by bassist Dave Burns and drummer Steve Richardson, also Rory diehards.

Next year's line-up is already cooking with the likes of Italian bluesman Rudy Rotta, teenage guitar prodigy Joanne Shaw Taylor and The Alan Nimmo Band in the melting pot.

Another first for the club is a new live CD featuring the highlights of last summer's R&B festival, including Paul Cox, Honeboy Hickling, Connie Lush and Moore & Moore. For more details contact club chairman Ray O'Hare on 488009.