SEVENTIES rock band Sweet will be bringing the Christmas spirit to Clitheroe Grand on Sunday night. Ahead of their show, original guitarist Andy Scott answered a few questions

What’s the best gig that you’ve been to or has inspired you the most?

Sweet were invited to “The” Led Zepellin gig at Earls Court in 1974, possibly their best ever show and I missed it through illness. So, I guess my other choice would be playing support to Jimi Hendrix in 1967 at Manchester New Century Hall. My band pre-Sweet, The Elastic Band was formed after watching Hendrix from the side of the stage and realising that our soul band – The Silverstones – days were numbered.

What is your favourite part of touring and what is your least favourite part of it?

Performing is the best part of touring without doubt. Airports and security are the worst, especially the intrusive wandering hands etc.

What’s your favourite UK venue so far, and why do you like it so much?

Sweet have now played most of the UK’s venues, large and small from the newish O2 down to the original Marquee Club. I still prefer the Marquee or am I being nostalgic?

Do you have a pre-show ritual? If so, what is it?

I am not superstitious so other than a wee dram of JD or similar no pre-stage nerves.

How do like to relax on a day off during a tour?

Sleep!

You’ve been touring and making music for some time. Do you have any stand-out stories and/or memories? If so, what are they?

I am about to go on a Music & Stories tour in Germany with Uriah Heep, Nazareth and Wishbone Ash, I will be the host, the MC and part of the concert will involve stories from all bands and yours truly so if you don’t mind I will just say – What happens on tour stays on tour until next year!

What is your favourite part about touring in the UK?

The shows we play in the UK are usually more intimate than the bigger places in Europe – you can see the whites in the eyes of the crowd. Plus you get to sleep in your own bed more often if you are less than two hours from home.

You are touring right up to Christmas. Are you looking forward to taking some time off over Christmas? Any plans for the festive period?

Christmas means family. Our plan is to get as many of us together and celebrate in the usual manner. Then escape at New Year.

You probably get this question a lot, are there any plans to release a new album/music?

Sony in Germany have commissioned a new studio album. We are working our way towards that, looking for songs, getting ideas for songs because I believe that is the best and most efficient way to kick start a project such as this. Our European profile is pretty good right now having charted with a box set and a new compilation of tracks from the last 50 years of releases from Sweet. I hope that the UK pick up on it this time - we live in hope. I guess we will start the recording process for the new album early next year s0 watch this space!

Sweet, Clitheroe Grand, Sunday, December 15. Details from 01200 421599 or www.thegrandvenue.co.uk