BOBBY Elliott, drummer of The Hollies since 1963, is in a good frame of mind ahead of their 2013 UK dates, as is the rest of the band.

“We’re all good and raring to go. In fact, today I’ve been checking all my drum equipment in readiness for the tour.”

The Hollies became a major player in the music world in the sixties with hits like On a Carousel, Carrie Anne, Jennifer Eccles and He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.

The latter got to number two in the charts in 1969, but when reissued in 1988 went one better to top the charts.

The 1970s produced more hits like Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress, Gasoline Alley Bred and The Air That I Breathe as the band seemed to concentrate on releasing some excellent albums like 5317704, Another Night and Buddy Holly, which came out in 1980.

At the shows, there will be the opportunity to pick up the band’s latest CD, a double CD of their live show.

“When we toured Britain last year, we were doing really well so I thought ‘let’s get it recorded’. The thing is, I didn’t tell the rest of the band. I didn’t tell the rest of the lads because when you know you’re being recorded you can be a bit guarded. My way worked much better and we got an honest recording. We are all very pleased with it.”

Bobby and guitarist Tony Hicks have been in the band since 1963, bassist Ray Stiles (ex-Mud) came in in 1988 and keyboard player Ian Parker arrived in 1990.

Long-standing lead singer Allan Clarke retired in 1999 and ex-Move singer Carl Wayne was brought in.

Carl died in 2004 and current singer Peter Howarth joined.

Second guitarist Steve Lauri arrived at roughly the same time and that completes the line-up. Bob puts the bands success down to “knowing a good song.”

“We have pride and passion and as long as people want to come and see us, I’m very flattered — In fact, it’s a privilege to play such great songs with some brilliant musicians.”

Now in his 70s, the Lancastrian drummer has no plans to hang up his sticks.

“I’ll carry on ‘cos I love it, it’s not a chore and as long as my body and brain hold out I’ll just keep going on.

“Performing is better than any drug. You give your all in a show and afterwards, you’re tired but elated, especially when everything goes tickety-boo.”

The show also features an unplugged section by Pete Howarth.

n The Hollies will be appearing at The Lowry tomorrow. Tickets are available from the Box Office and usual agencies.