A STAR-studded tribute show staged at the same theatre for the last 18 years is moving to a new arena-sized home.

Sunday For Sammy, first staged in 2000 in tribute to Geordie actor Sammy Johnson, is switching to the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle.

The music and sketch show has traditionally been held in the City Hall, Newcastle, but last year's two dates sold-out in a day, leaving many fans disappointed.

It will next be staged in February next year with two 5,000-seat arena shows, meaning double the number of tickets are available.

Among the stars to appear over the years have been actors Tim Healy, Denise Welch, Kevin Whately, Charlie Hardwick, Jimmy Nail, Jill Halfpenny, Timothy Spall and Stephen Tomkinson; musicians Mark Knopfler, Brian Johnson, Lindisfarne and Joe McElderry; sports stars Brendan Foster, Bob Moncur and Glenn McCrory and North-East celebrities Donna Air, Ant and Dec and Pam Royle.

Money raised supports the next generation of North Eastern performers with training, expenses and equipment.

Tim Healy, chairman of the Sunday for Sammy Trust, said: "The show has become so hugely popular that all available tickets are snapped up as soon as they go on sale.

"By moving to a larger venue we can give loads more people the opportunity to see the show while ensuring our continued support for the talented young performers from our area that need a helping hand.”

Show producer Ray Laidlaw said: “Sunday for Sammy is unique; no other part of the country has an event that celebrates its regional popular culture on such a scale while supporting the next generation of performers.

"That’s why we’ve doubled the capacity."

Tickets for next year's show go on sale on March 22, priced £35, from metroradioarena.co.uk, on 0844 493 6666 or in person from the Metro Radio Arena Box Office.

Tickets will also be available from Newcastle Theatre Royal at theatreroyal.co.uk or 08448 112121.