A LONG, winding and eventful road is ending for Worcester's very own fab four, the Beatless, with a final farewell concert.

The tribute band will celebrate more than a decade of music making with an open-air concert at Worcester City FC's St George's Lane ground, to coincide with the club's centenary celebrations.

Although the band, which formed 11 years ago, has been tempted out of retirement before, manager Tony Gibbon said this time it was for real, and Worcester fans will hear the last notes they play.

"Let's face it, they've been together for longer than the real Beatles were," said Tony.

"I've already made plans to auction off costumes and other Beatless paraphernalia after this show, so there's no going back."

With 509 shows in eight countries, 127 television and radio appearances and more than £50,000 raised for charity, the group has "rocked" up an impressive back catalogue.

A Middle Eastern television gig in front of 80 million viewers and a performance with original Beatles drummer Pete Best in Nuremberg, Germany, were just two highlights of the group's worldwide tours.

Founder member Jules Benjamin, who performs as John Lennon, said the gig, on Saturday, May 10, coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Beatles first and last performances in Worcester in June and September 1963, both at the Gaumont.

"I think we've achieved everything possible for a tribute band, seen a lot of the world and done our little bit to keep the music of the Beatles alive," said Jules.

The band will be joined on stage with the area's current crop of top bands, including Blind Lemon, Come Together and Medford.

Any up-and-coming bands interested in being on the bill can send CDs to Tony Gibbon on 01905 350547 and the best will then be chosen to perform.

All tickets for the 4pm concert cost £6 in advance and are available from Worcester City Football Club or by calling 01905 23003.