THEY are undoubtedly Bolton’s best Mexican band.

Pancho Ballard and the Banditos will be entertaining their hometown with an appearance at the Octagon theatre, as part of the new series of Cityscape Presents events.

Pancho, aka Bolton lad Darren Riley, says: “I’m quite excited really — it feels like one of those venues where you always hope you’ll play. It’s like ticking somewhere off a list.”

The band haven’t appeared in Bolton since playing the annual Dog and Partridge Dogstock in May.

They will be showcasing tracks from their new concept EP, which is the soundtrack to an imaginary film.

Darren says: “It’s very new, so we might be flying by the seat of our pants.

"There’s no plot to this film, but each song sounds like it might have a plot. It’s pretty dark in places. There’s lots of murders on there.”

The band’s on-stage sombreros and facial hair may suggest a novelty act, but don’t be fooled — they boast some serious musical and songwriting talent.

Darren says: “Every six months or so Dick (Perkins, trombone), says, ‘Do you think it’s time to drop the sombreros?’ but I just can’t do it.“

* Pancho Ballard and the Banditos play the Octagon, Howell Croft South, Bolton, on Monday, October 11. Tickets are priced £5. For more information, visit octagonbolton.co.uk or ring 01204 520661.