LEGENDARY rockers Status Quo are to play Ipswich for the second time this year - the Evening Star can today reveal.

LEGENDARY rockers Status Quo are to play Ipswich for the second time this year - the Evening Star can today reveal.

The band which regularly attract sell-out crowds is to perform at The Regent theatre on November 23 and 24.

Francis Rossi said: “Playing to our fans is still and has always been the most important thing for the band. Nothing beats playing live and this is as relevant today as it always has been.

Speaking exclusively to the Evening Star, Mr Rossi added: “As you know we were forced to postpone dates from October 2008 until February 2009.

“Now, today we have two new Ipswich shows going on sale. Yes, like the proverbial bad pennies we'll be back again in November. We love playing Ipswich so, if you're ready, we are - see you at The Regent!

“Four Ipswich shows in one year must be a Quo record - maybe a world record - but we know our Suffolk fans will be up for it.”

The 31-date winter tour follows the group's earlier performance this month at the venue as part of their Pictures: 40 Years Of Hits album tour.

A spokesman for promoters Live Nation said: “The 2009 Winter dates are a great opportunity to witness one of the world's greatest ever live acts doing what they do best.

“The Pictures: 40 Years Of Hits album sold over quarter of a million copies in the UK alone last year and has accordingly been certified gold, and the band can't wait to perform for the fans that helped them reach this milestone.”

The launch event for the album raised over �110,000 for the Prince's Trust youth charity.

Regent manager David Mansfield said: “We are delighted to welcome Status Quo to The Regent. They are always a great act and great fun.”

Last year, Status Quo were also crowned as Britain's hardest-working band in the Arena Venues category by the PRS (Performing Right Society) with 35 performances in 2008 to well over 300,000 fans.

Tickets are on sale today from the Regent on 01473 433100.

Are you a fan of Status Quo? Did you enjoy their performance earlier this month? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk