UP-AND-COMING rock performer Pete Shoulder said he was delighted with the response to his new band's first mini-tour.

The 20-year-old guitarist and singer-songwriter and his trio The Others played six support slots for veteran rockers Thunder at venues from Portsmouth to Nottingham.

They showcased a new set of songs and also played a headlining gig at the Newcastle Opera House in front of 400 fans.

Pete, of Waldridge, County Durham, who signed to Sony in 2001, said: "I enjoyed it and the crowd was great. The tour was fantastic, really good. We have won a load of fans. You just have to look at the messages on our website."

The band hope to play in Belgium and Holland early next year as well as doing more work on their first album.

A three-track CD is available through their website www.theothersonline.com