R.E.M tribute band Stipe will be performing in their home town for the first time for more than a year on Saturday, December 6.

The band, which is led by frontman Richard Southern, are appearing at the Lostock Sports and Social Club in Works Lane, Northwich.

The band last performed locally in July 2013, and are making a welcome return to the town after more than a year touring across the country and in Italy.

The band is named after R.E.M. lead singer Michael Stipe, and was formed in 1996.

Richard said: “The music of R.E.M. left such an impression on myself that it will always be a part of my life.

“It lives deep down inside and has brought much happiness. For as long as I am able I will keep singing those songs and performing as ‘Michael Stipe’.”

Richard lives in Northwich, and is a gardener, and the band’s drummer, Martyn Smith, also from Northwich, is a painter and decorator.

Lead guitarist Steve Bell from Congleton is a pharmacist, bass guitarist Johnny James Stringer, from Winsford, is a full-time musician, and rhythm guitarist John McGlough, from Warrington, is a HGV driver.

Stipe are on stage at 8pm, and will be followed by a disco from the R.A.O.B. Roadshow.

For more details of the Lostock Club show, tickets for which are £5, available on the door only, visit the band’s website, remtribute.co.uk, and Facebook page, facebook.com/remband.