AN ORIGINAL member of Darlington's oldest band has returned in time for the group's 20th anniversary concert.

Lifetime Skiver played their first gig upstairs in the Tap and Spile in August 1994 and will play a celebratory concert at the Forum this Saturday (August 16).

Well-regarded lead guitarist Nick Miller has recently returned to the band after living in the south for many years.

The band only made their first album two years ago after 18 years of playing pubs and clubs across the North-East.

Mike Cass, singer and song-writer with the band, said: "It kills me to say it, but Nick's dead good. He's always, rightly, had this reputation as a first rate guitarist.

"We were talking about why we've lasted 20 years and we agreed it's just because we're mates. Most bands you find nobody really likes each other. You get them saying they've got 'interest' from record companies and all that, and six months later they don't exist. We've just been plodding along but having a laugh."

Also playing on Saturday will be acoustic duo Dirty Wings, up-and-coming band The Days and guest DJs.

Saturday's gig will be at The Forum from 8pm. Tickets are £5 in advance and £6 on the door, although it is expected to sell-out. Call The Forum on 01325-363135.