ROCKERS Status Quo are to play Ipswich's Regent theatre, it has been announced.

ROCKERS Status Quo are to play Ipswich's Regent theatre, it has been announced.

Promoters Live Nation said the Quo will visit 24 venues across the UK as part of their annual winter tour.

Status Quo's Francis Rossi said: “The 2008 UK tour is going to be very special for us. This year marks the 40th anniversary of our first ever hit single 'Pictures Of Matchstick Men.'

“We are going to celebrate in style - there will be lots of surprises thrown in along the way, and we want all our true fans to join us at these special shows to be part of a piece of Quo history”.

Hazel Clover, Regent theatre manager said: “Status Quo are old friends of the Regent theatre and we are delighted to be welcoming them back again this year.

“Their talent is one of the most enduring in the industry and is consistently popular with Ipswich audiences. Their show is a great addition to our winter programme.”

A spokesman for Live Nation said: “The 'Pictures - 40 Years of Hits' tour offers Quo's army of fans the chance to experience the magic of this truly seminal British rock act.

“One of the world's most enduring and successful live acts, the mighty Quo have influenced a generation of musicians and entertained millions with their driving, no-nonsense brand of rock.”

Tickets are on sale on Friday, March 28 at 9am. Prices start at £31.50 and will be available from the Regent box office by calling 01473 433100.

Are you a fan of Status Quo? Why are they so popular? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk