WHEN Stewart Nutter first heard John Otway sing he resolved to fix up a local concert for the star.

"I wasn't expecting to enjoy him very much at all," said Stewart, 45.

"But I was gobsmacked. He was amazing."

And although Stewart, an administrator, had no previous experience of organising concerts, once he'd secured Burnley Rugby Club as a venue, John was happy to oblige.

The result will be an outstanding blend of music and comedy from the star, a notorious two-hit wonder, which will take place on June 20.

Tickets are already selling rapidly and Stewart said: "It's been word of mouth, mainly. We've sold nearly two thirds of our ticket allocation already.

"I've never seen him sing solo before, so it'll be a new experience for me.

"I've bored people to death with it at work!"

When Stewart first planned the gig his aim was simply to bring his hero to Burnley, but he quickly realised the event's fund-raising potential.

As a result, 50p from each ticket will go to the Macmillan Cancer Appeal, while a raffle on the night will also raise funds for the charity.

John Otway first achieved notoriety with Wild Willy Barrett and their hit single Really Free in 1977.

However, he failed to achieve a follow-up hit for another two decades until, last year, Bunsen Burner made it to number nine in the charts.

Instead, he has built up his considerable fan base with live gigs.

Stewart said: "I first heard him two-and-a-half years ago and I was amazed. He is superb live."

You can hear John Otway at Burnley Rugby Club on Friday, June 20 at 7.30pm.

Tickets, costing £8.50, are available from Planet Records, New Market Street, Colne (01228) 866317.

The last-ever Holidays In The Sun punk festival kicks off in Morecambe on June 20. However, the organisers are promising the biggest and best party ever, with over 100 bands on three stages and other events throughout the town.

BIG NAME: John Otway will perform in Burnley after being booked by fan Stewart