TIME appears to have stood still as far as Midge Ure is concerned. The driving force behind Ultravox and, of course, Live Aid powered through a 90 minute set looking not a day older than he did in the 'glory days' of the 1980s.

The same could not be said of the majority of the audience who turned out in force to support one of the most influential musicians of recent years.

The age range of the varied from teenagers through to seniors but the Civic Theatre was packed which proves that Oswaldtwistle can support big name acts.

Backed by just two musicians and a shopful of electrical equipment, Midge Ure was able to delve deeply into his extensive back catalogue.

An impressive comupterised light show made you soon forget that you were in Oswaldtwistle and the versatile theatre demonstrated that it is more than capable of becoming a regular gig venue.

Highlights included an acoustic version of No Regrets and a storming Sleepwalk which finally got the crowd up to the front.

Vienna, of course, Fade to Grey and Breathe spanned the musical years all linked by the usual dry humour.

It's amazing how many Midge Ure songs you remember and what a prolific artist he is. He clearly enjoys playing live -- and thank goodness he does.

His voice was stronger than on previous occasions than I've seen him and there is a danger he's becoming rather like a good wine and getting even better with age.

Next time he comes, try and get a ticket..