IT took 20 years for The Stiffs debut album to be released but as punk celebrates its 25th anniversary, the band are enjoying a mini revival.

The Blackburn quartet of Phil Hendricks, Ian Barnes, John McVitie and Tommy O'Kane were born on a solid diet of glam rock and punk.

After DJ John Peel heralded their second single, Inside Out, as 'the greatest record in the history of the universe', they were quickly signed up by the major record label EMI.

But as punk made way for the New Wave moment and heavy metal bands like Iron Maiden, their debut album was shelved for the nearly two decades.

Now with punk experiencing a revival, The Stiff's music has been included on two new compilations thanks to Blackburn-born Alan Parker, currently working with EMI.

Alan has masterminded All Covered in Punk, which features many of the leading bands of the era doing cover versions.

The Stiffs' power pop version of, Goodbye My Love, appears on the album which is out this week.

Alan revealed the idea of the compilation had come together after a few drinks with friends in London.

He said: "Everyone was into it right away so it all came together really quickly. I know I'm biased but I really believe it's one of the best compilations around because it's so strange."

When the track listing was put together he had no hesitation putting his hometown friends alongside the likes of The Sex Pistols.

Alan said: "It was a conscious decision to get them on the record, because for the past few years I've tried to involve them in as many of my projects as possible."

Now with four of their own albums out at the moment and appearances on at least another six compilations, the music of the The Stiffs is putting the group back on the map.

Alan added: "They've got a pretty good track record for a band who weren't around that long and who weren't that well known when they were at their height."

In June. the lads' own composition, Innocent Bystanders, will be included on another compilation album, Crime Pays.

And fans may yet get another chance to see the band live.

Phil Hendricks said: "I was in Blackburn last weekend and we were talking about doing another show but we just need to find someone to have us."