GEORDIE rock legends Lindisfarne will celebrate the 30th anniversary of their biggest hit with a gig at Durham's Gala Theatre.

The group will play at the theatre on Sunday, March 31, as part of their 40-date national tour to promote their latest album Promenade.

In 1972 Lindisfarne's second album Fog on the Tyne, went to No 1 and stayed in the charts for 43 weeks, achieving a gold disc.

The band have had their ups and downs over the years, but have continued to build a loyal following, with their unique style, distinctive songs and down-to-earth approach.

The new album is the second they have recorded since the death in 1995 of singer and main songwriter Alan Hull. It features a line-up of Ray Laidlaw, Rod Clements - the only survivors of the early days - Billy Mitchell, Ian Thomson and Dave Denholm.

Ray Laidlaw, the band's drummer, said he and his bandmates were looking forward to playing at the 500-capacity theatre.

"We played Durham several times and it was our other stamping ground when we started because of Rod's connection. Rod was social secretary at St Cuthbert's College so we played support to several bands booked there - a lot of people who became pals. We are looking forward to Durham because it is a brand new theatre.''

He said that audiences had given a warm welcome to songs from the new album as well as the band's old favourites.

"I think the new album is a jump back into the mainstream but it wasn't consciously done. The only album we have done since Alan died was very acoustic - we went back to that style as a touchstone to give it a grounding. I think it is similar to the first album, Nicely Out Of Tune.

"We just do what we do and as long as there seems to be a demand for it we are up for it. Good songs transcend age differences.

"Our fans are very loyal and we always have a pint and a chat with them in the bar after the show.''

For details of the Gala show call the box office on (0191) 3830100.