WHEN they were last performing on stage, people were rocking to the sounds of A-Ha, Dire Straits and the Pet Shop Boys.

Now, 20 years down the line, Worcester band China Blue are dusting off their instruments and preparing to brave the masses once again.

Inspired by 60s greats such as The Who, The Kinks and The Beatles and the post-punk heroes of their youth such as The Jam and The Clash, the band was formed by Worcester Royal Grammar School pupils Paul Austin and John Hyde - both of St John's, Worcester - back in 1982.

With Pete Candlin joining on drums and Steve Frost taking up lead guitar a couple of years later, the group went on to become regulars on the local music circuit.

It all came to an end in 1986 when Paul and Steve left to travel the world, with their farewell gig taking place at what is now Lloyd's Bar in Broad Street in April.

But, after a chance meeting 18 months ago, Paul and John met up for a drink for old time's sake and songwriter Paul gave him a CD of self-penned tunes to listen to.

John said: "I'd always rated him as a songwriter and felt there was real quality to this new batch - both in the strength of the tunes and the maturity of the lyrics.

"We agreed we had unfinished business - the band had split up very suddenly at a time when we were starting to build up a loyal following in the city."

The band got together for a couple of private gigs last year including John's 40th in January and were boosted by the positive response.

With Steve unable to commit to the group due to him playing with Breach of the Peace, the three original members of China Blue - all now 41 - will be performing a 'belated encore' on Friday, February 3, at the Marr's Bar in the city's Pierpoint Street.

Tickets for the gig are £4 in advance or £5 on the door, with proceeds going to When You Wish Upon A Star, a charity supporting children with life-threatening illnesses.

THE TOP TEN in JANUARY, 1986

1 West End Girls Pet Shop Boys

2 Hit That Perfect Beat Bronski Beat

3 The Sun Always Shines On TV A-HA

4 Saving All My Love For You Whitney Houston

5 Saturday Love Cherrelle & Alexander O'Neil

6 Girlie Girlie Sophia George

7 Merry Christmas Everyone Shakin' Stevens

8 Walk of Life Dire Straits

9 Walking in the Air Aled Jones

10 You Little Thief Feargal Sharkey