A CULT singer/songwriter played to a packed house over the bank holiday weekend.

John Otway, the country's self-confessed most unsuccessful artist, who has built a large fanbase due to his wacky stage shows, performed in Crook, County Durham.

Appearing at Crook Town Football Club's recently- refurbished social club on Saturday, he played to more than 100 fans.

Songs included Really Free and Bunsen Burner, his two hits which allowed him to release a greatest hits album.

Otway's autobiography was subtitled Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure, but promoter Graham Kitto said that the gig had been a success.

He said: "It was excellent. It was a sell-out and he was superb. A lot of locals came down to see what it was about, and we had people from all over the country.

"The only shame was that we had to turn people away, but even though John has played at big venues before, he loved it and has said he wants to come back."

The show included forward rolls and jumping off chairs, and saw Otway playing a double-headed ambidextrous guitar.

He was supported by Weardale band Death Pigeon, who have been asked to back him again in the future.

The social club, at the football team's Millfield Ground, presents live music every Saturday night.

Among forthcoming shows are Eddie and the Hot Rods, on August 9, Eighties heavy metal act Tygers of Pan Tang, on September 21, and Dr Feelgood on December 6.