Bessie And The Zinc Buckets, a popular four-piece rockabilly outfit, will support the man who created such classics as Johnny B. Goode and Roll Over Beethoven.

This Sunday's gig at The Tyne Theatre, Newcastle, has been described as "absolutely crazy" by Kev Charlton, from South Shields, bass player with the Buckets.

He said: "Chuck Berry is one of our idols, so we're well happy about supporting the great man on Sunday.

"The Buckets often play some of Chuck's songs, like Promised Land, Johnny B Goode and No Particular Place To Go, so it's like a dream come true to be on the same bill.

"We got a call out of the blue from the promoter asking us to support Chuck and we just couldn't believe it."

Now 83, St Louis-born Berry started his musical career by playing the blues, before securing rock and roll immortality with a string of classic hit songs recorded for Chess Records.

An inspiration for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, Berry has continued to tour the world, despite his advancing years.

Bessie And The Zinc Buckets recently helped raise money for the under-threat Mission to Seafarers after playing a charity gig at the Customs House, South Shields.

The band celebrated its 25th anniversary by playing to more than 200 people, and in doing so helped to raise about £1,250 for the Mission.

Tickets for the Chuck Berry gig on Sunday cost £46, but are going fast. Call 0844 493 9999.