ONE of Atlanta’s finest touring bands have chosen to return to Teesdale to perform one of only two dates in the North East as part of their latest European tour.

Gringo Star, an indie rock group, performed at the Teesdale Hotel in Middleton-in-Teesdale two years ago and enjoyed the welcome they received so much they have included the small, village on their tour calendar.

Michael Carr, who arranged the band’s first visit to the dale, said back then the event had been hastily arranged after the band had a cancellation but “they went down a storm.”

Mr Carr has now secured one of only two of their North East dates.

This time the group will be performing at Middleton Sports and Social Club on Sunday, February 17, from 2.30pm.

Nick Gurgiuele, from Gringo Star, said: “We’re really looking forward to playing to Teesdale again.

“We had a real blast last time.”

The band are promoting their latest album, Back to the City, and the social club gig is the final leg of the UK tour.

Immediately following the gig they will be heading off to Dusseldorf in Germany.

Supporting them at Middleton Sports and Social club is promising Spennymoor singer/songwriter Jamie Longthorne, who was previously lead vocalist in County Durham band Celestine.

Tickets cost £6 and are available in advance from Sue Bainbridge at the club or from Mick Carr from www.seetickets.com, although it will be possible to purchase on the door.