ROCK 'n' Roll is going strong in Hanley Castle with one of the top bands on the circuit making an appearance at a New Year Dance.

Malvern Crepes and Drapes is preparing to enter its ninth year of organising dances and on Sunday, December 31, have invited Johnnie Fox and the Hunters to provide the music.

"They are a band we have had for seven or eight years, we love them," said Peter McKelvie, one of the organisers, "They are from Slough but they are all Londoners who moved out and they are one of the best bands on the circuit - they are very, very popular."

Malvern Crepes and Drapes started in 1992 organising dances to raise funds for Jailbreak. Over the years the club contributed £40,000 to Jailbreak funds but now that has finished, organisers intend to make donations to local charities.

The club shows no signs of slowing down and may actually be benefiting from a younger generation's interest, particularly with the recent success of a re-release of Elvis Presley hits.

"We are getting quite a lot of youngsters who want to jive, there might be a new market," said Mr McKelvie.

The New Year dance is being held at the group's regular venue, Hanley Castle High School, from 7.30pm till late. Tickets are £10 from 01684 564312 or 561604.