A GALAXY of pop stars from the 60s and 70s will be dusting off their instruments to raise money to help an old musical mate.

The golden oldies will be playing a concert to pay tribute and raise funds for an unsung hero of music from Bolton, Dave Morris.

Drummer Dave helped form the Salford Jets, was a member of the Mindbenders for many years and played with other famous bands including The Troggs.

The gig will raise money to help 51-year-old Dave who suffered a stroke in October and can no longer work.

Dave has performed with all the artists, who are only too happy to put in an appearance to help out their old friend.

"I rang up a lot of people and they said they would love to do it," said Diccon Hubbard, who played with Dave in the Salford Jets.

Many of them have had very successful careers and Dave has always played a crucial musical role in the background.

But Dave's world was turned upside down in October when he had a stroke and spent six weeks recovering in the Royal Bolton Hospital.

"I'll never work again, I just don't have the co-ordination," he said.

"I have sold my drum kit and cymbals because I couldn't even walk to the garage to set them up - let alone play them."

But Diccon, Dave's old friend and colleague from many bands and performances came up with the idea of a show to raise money and get all their old mates together.

"I am pleased with the effort Diccon has put in, it's been marvellous to see."

"They are all giving their support for free."

"On the night it will be a bit emotional because there will be people who I have not seen for a long time and I know that I will never be able to work with them again."

Featuring on the bill are stars who have shared the stage with Dave during a career spanning four decades.

Dave has drummed with the The Escorts, The Salford Jets, The Thunderbyrds and The Mindbenders with Wayne Fontana, as well as backing many other famous acts and travelling the world, including a trip on the QE2.

Artists appearing on the night include The Troggs who wrote the huge hit "Love is All Around", Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick &Tich who wrote the number 1 hit "Legend of Xanadu", Herman's Hermits who penned "I am in to Something Good", Johnny Logan who won the Eurovision Song Contest with "What's Another Year", Dave Berry who wrote "The Crying Game" and The Dakotas who had hits including "Little Children".

The one-off night is to be held at the Willows Variety Centre on Willows Road, Salford, on Sunday, January 24 from 7 pm.

Tickets are available from the hot-line 0161 274 3000.