SIXTIES heartthrob Malc Hurst is back on the road with a new band.

The former lead singer with Leigh groups, The Pressmen and The Vulcans, has formed Road Crew who are now busy establishing themselves on the North West blues circuit.

Malc, who was brought up in Hurst Street, Leigh, met fellow members of the group, like-minded musicians, at jam nights.

Unable to ignore the chemistry between them, the five-piece band led by raw vocalist and harmonica player Malc, who was introduced to the blues by Leigh legend Georgie Fame, hit the road in August last year.

Now the band is gaining a reputation for excitement and fine musicianship presenting a superb exhibition of Chicago blues, original numbers and rock music.

Malc, who moved to Southport in the 1980s, has kept in touch with former band mates in Leigh and over the past five years he has returned to play at reunion gigs for charity.

Now Road Crew, made up of Malc, Jeff Roberts, Geoff McNally, Phil Bernia and Les Jones, are planning a nationwide tour later this year, but will be appearing at The Beer Engine, Wigan, on Friday, April 30.

Malc, who is in the process of producing a CD of original material, said: "I would like to organise a similar gig in Leigh if anyone can let me know of a good-size venue."

He can be contacted by e-mail on malcoblues@yahoo.co.uk or ring 01704 220438.