PETER Grant, the manager of Led Zeppelin, perhaps the most successful rock band of all time, was a towering personality whose dedication to Zeppelin helped make them seventies superstars.

Now his son Warren, who manages Hats Off To Zeppelin, and voted Britain’s premier tribute band to the monsters of rock, has come to the rescue after promoters of New York’s all-girl tribute band to Page, Plant, Jones and Bonham pulled the plug on their UK tour and next weekend’s date at Clitheroe’s Grand Theatre.

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“We had to rearrange our anniversary show in London to make it happen, so we will be especially charged for this one as we’ve been trying to play at the Grand for two and a half years,” says Kevin Oliver-Jones who plays the role of bass player John Paul Jones.

“It’s a shame that the Lez Zeppelin tour was cancelled but we’re happy to be able to fill the void for all those Zeppelin fans hoping to share in the music of the band.”

Having played with Queen, Ray Davies, Edwin Starr, Iron Maiden, Gerry and the Pacemakers, PJ Proby and The Seahorses – as well as appearing in West End shows We Will Rock You, Thriller, Dancing in the Streets and Return to the Forbidden Planet – they will be sure to provide a worthy replacement.

“Sometimes there is a stigma with tribute bands, but we are all involved with theatre and music and we started the band as a bit of a laugh,” adds Kevin.

“We approached it very much for the love of music as we were all Led Zeppelin fans and it happened to take off from there.”

But the trajectory of the band went skywards when Grant’s son saw them live.

“Led Zeppelin’s unofficial biographer Dave Lewis is a big fan and tends to come and see us if we play near his hometown,” explained Kevin.

“He told us that Warren (Peter Grant’s son) was eager to come and see us.

“After the show he said he’d like to get involved with managing us. That is an offer you don’t refuse.

“Warren was on the road with his dad and Led Zeppelin when he was 11.

“He knew we were genuine and from there we knew we were on the right track.”

The name Hats off to Zeppelin references the song Hats off to Roy Harper – the last song on their 1970 album Led Zeppelin III.

“I was a little surprised that no one had used it before,” adds Kevin.

“It’s perfect for us as what we try to do is tip our hat to them.”

Hats Off to Led Zeppelin have now been going for five years.

“We might be 40-year-olds but touring the country like 20-year-olds keeps you young,” said Kevin.

n Hats Off to Led Zeppelin, Clitheroe Grand Theatre, January 31. Details from 01200 421599.