ROCK fans have the chance to see young guitar virtuoso Pete Shoulder in concert next month.

The 18-year-old will be playing on home territory at Durham City's 520-seat Gala Theatre on Friday, September 6.

The singer-songwriter from Waldridge, near Chester-le-Street, has built up a solid fan base since he started on the region's pub and club circuit aged 13.

His blues rock-drenched guitar playing and original compositions landed him a six-album deal with recording company Sony in the US.

He and his backing band - former members of Durham group Sugarwood - impressed a record crowd at the recent Stanley Blues Festival.

That was only the band's second gig this year as Pete has twice flown to the US to work with established songwriters.

And the Gala show could be the last chance to catch the highly rated guitarist on stage as he is hoping to start work on his first album later in September.

Pete said: "I can't wait for it. I think it will be a great night.

"It's a great venue with excellent sound and lighting and we are really going to go to town with the stage show.

"I'll probably do a 45-minute set on my own. I might switch between acoustic guitar and piano and after a break I'll bring the band on.

"I think there has been a lot of interest already so I'm hopeful that the tickets will sell well."

A Gala spokeswoman said: "It will be a popular gig. I have got no worries he will do well.

"Word is getting around and we have already sold 50 tickets, even though it has not been advertised yet."

The concert starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5 and are available from the theatre box office on 0191-332 4041.