REMEMBER Clackers - those large balls on strings that could give you a nasty whack on the wrist.

Or what about Space Hoppers, a bright orange rubber ball with a ridiculous painted-on face and two horns you grabbed hold of as you bounced around.

Yes, the 70s were grand, weren't they?

And the clothes - who could resist a bloke in hip-hugging loons and a bri-nylon psychedelic shirt.

All these things and more have been brought back to life through a new TV programme, Days Like These, which hits our screens tonight.

And one of the stars of the show is Bolton actor James Carlton, who plays fashion victim and aspiring playboy, Michael McGuire.

Following bit parts in Emmerdale, Cops and Cold Feet, plus a couple of TV commercials, the 21-year-old former Turton High School pupil turned his hand to a spot of modelling.

And he's clearly delighted about scooping his first major TV role.

Speaking from his family's Harwood home during a week's break in filming, James says: "Doing the programme is fantastic, really good fun.

"Dressing up in all that 70s gear is such a laugh and I get to be on TV as well."

Days Like These is set in Luton in 1976 and chronicles the ups and downs of a hip group of teenagers.

Producers have used a largely unknown cast and James is convinced the show's a winner.

"It's a brilliant show and I'm sure once viewers get to know the characters, they'll love it."

But getting the part has led to James following a strict fitness regime.

"I've been giving it some in the gym," he laughs. "Those trousers they wore in the 70s are so tight and they don't really leave much to the imagination, so I've got to make sure I've no excess weight."

James admits his family and friends might not recognise him in the show - his long wig and sideburns will see to that.

DAYS Like These is on Granada, Friday, 8.30pm.

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