YOU are never too old to Rock ‘n’ Roll, or so they say.

In May, four-piece rock band 4 Shades of Grey, which has an average age of 74, will take to the stage to raise funds for Brighter Futures, proving that age is but a number.

The band is taking part in a special fundraising gig at The Supermarine Club on Saturday, May 6 – an event organised by 78-year-old Gordon Timms’ entertainment business Stardust Dance.

The band were flattered to be asked and are firm supporters of the radiotherapy appeal, especially as the wife of one member had to travel to Oxford for treatment before her death in 2011.

Lead guitarist Keith Hart, who lives in Purton and celebrates his 77th birthday today, said: “We have always played a similar sort of music – late 50s, 60s and 70s Rock ‘n’ Roll. We often play to the age groups that like those songs, and we love them too.

“People always get up to dance and sometimes we struggle to get off the stage because people don’t want us to stop playing.”

Keith described the band as the “classic line up” and includes Keith, rhythm guitarist Barry Kilford, bass player Ian Temby and drummer Dave Davies.

The group have played together for the past two years and got their name from a cheeky suggestion made by Barry’s wife. “We all have grey hair, so it stuck,” said Keith.

“We were all in groups in the 60s and we all knew each other then. Dave and Barry were in a group that played at the famous Cavern Club in Liverpool.”

The rocking foursome play a variety of famous numbers from Chuck Berry to Cliff Richard. One of Keith’s favourites, as far as vocals are concerned, is Midnight Hour by Wilson Pickett.

They practice twice a month and usually find time for one or two gigs in between.

They are very much looking forward to entertaining audiences in May, especially as it’s to raise funds for such a good cause.

“It’s great to be able to raise money for Brighter Futures,” said Keith.

“We are all more than happy to support it because it’s a wonderful charity. My wife Ann died from cancer and she had to go to Oxford for radiotherapy treatment – it was debilitating for her. If we can get something in this town it will be absolutely brilliant.”

For tickets to May’s show, email Alan Holmes, owner of Holmes Music in Faringdon Road, on alan@holmesmusic.co.uk or call 01793 520948.

The night kicks off from 8pm until 11.30pm and tickets cost £10. There will be a bar, food provided and a raffle.

Organiser Gordon Timms said: “I’m looking forward to the show and I’m hoping to get as many people along as possible.”

So far £1,500,000 has been raised for Brighter Futures. The team is very grateful for every single donation and wish to thank everyone for their support. To donate cut out and send in the form printed here or log on to: www.brighterfuturesgwh.nhs.uk.