Phil's hoping for Blue Sky ahead of gig

ONE of Tamworth's best-known musicians is bringing his new project to town.

Phil Bates, pictured, formerly of ELO Part II and a current member of the band's latest incarnation, The Orchestra, will perform with Wheels Of Fire at the Moat House in August.

Wheels Of Fire is a tribute to the greats of guitar including: Clapton, Hendrix, Page, Beck, Green and Gary Moore among others.

Phil said: "It came about because I just fancied playing some of the great guitar tracks that influence me."

The line-up includes original Jethro Tull's drummer Clive Bunker, Magnum's Mark Stanway on keyboards and Brian Badhams from the Elkie Brooks band on bass.

The gig takes place on August 6. Tickets are £12 and are available from Tamworth Information Centre on 01827 709618 or online from www.phil-bates.co.uk.