Quo can still get fans rocking

More than 1,600 fans were rockin' all over Telford last night as Status Quo played in the town for the first time in more than 14 years.

More than 1,600 fans were rockin' all over Telford last night as Status Quo played in the town for the first time in more than 14 years.The ageing rockers, whose last gig in the county was held at town's ice rink in 1992, sent their fans home happy after tearing through an extensive back catalogue at the International Centre.

In a set lasting about 90 minutes, Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi proved why they have been one of the biggest acts in rock for over 40 years.

Much had been made of Parfitt's throat cancer scare last year - which caused the cancellation of the last concert in Telford - but he was in fine voice as they kicked off their set with the classic Caroline.

From a high octane start, there were few chances for the band to let up as they quickly moved onto a string of 70s classics, including Fort Five Hundred Times.

Fans were also given numbers from the 2002 Heavy Traffic album, including All Stand Up (Never Say Never) and Going Oriental.

Long-time fan Andy Dodd, from Ketley in Telford, said the band sounded just as good as they did 30 years ago.

"They are just brilliant and it is about time they were here in Telford," he said. "I saw them all those years ago and they are just as young! They still get the crowd going."

Catherine Edwards, from Horsehay, said the band had a huge connection with its fans.

"I have been following them for years and they just have fun," she said. "They enjoy themselves and they make you feel good."

The band finished with a flourish as they launched into a majestic threesome of Down Down, Whatever You Want and Rockin' All Over The World.

But like all good rockers, they were not prepared to end it there and they returned for an encore that included the evergreen In The Army Now and Bye Bye Johnny.

Lyndon Evans, from Pontesbury, has been following the band for more than 30 years and said their music never goes out of fashion.

He said: "Their music is a lot of fun and is just ageless."

By James Shaw