YOUNG rock talent Pete Shoulder is to play Durham City's Gala Theatre.

Pete, 18, from Waldridge, Chester-le-Street, last year signed a six-album deal with recording giants Sony and was a hit with the record crowd at the recent Stanley Blues Festival.

He and his band will play the 520-seat venue on Friday, September 6. This year the band has only played live twice because the guitarist and singer-songwriter has made two trips to the USA to work with established writers.

Pete hopes to start work on his first album in the next few months. He 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.''

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's not been advertised yet.''

The concert starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 from the box office, (0191) 332 4041.