A band dedicated to the music of one of the world's greatest guitarists will celebrate its 20th anniversary on home soil.

Classic Clapton will be performing at The Tyne Theatre, in Westgate Road, Newcastle, on Thursday, December 1, their first gig at the venue for two years.

The band, which began as After Midnight, play classic songs from Eric Clapton's long career and have recently released their third album, Classic Cream, containing songs by the 1960s group.

The band is led by Durham-born Clapton sound and look-alike Mike Hall and includes drummer Vince Mason, bassist John Forster and keyboard player Ray Snowdon, who has rejoined the band after a two-year break.

The band has played throughout the country - including the Glastonbury Festival - and last year headlined an international music festival in Estonia.

The gig starts at 8pm. Tickets cost £10 from the booking hotline on 0870 145 1200. Mike Hall said: "The band have a huge following in Newcastle and have not appeared at the venue since 2003, so demand for tickets should be high. Fans are advised to book early.''

For more information about the band, go to www.classic-clapton.com