BRITAIN’S Eurovision hopeful Alex Larke will be bringing satisfaction to Swindon music fans when he fronts a Rolling Stones tribute act on Saturday.

Alex, 35, is half of Electro Velvet, completed by Bianca Nicholas, with the pair representing Great Britain at the annual event taking place in Vienna, Austria, May 23.

But on Saturday it’s only rock ‘n’ roll on the menu when Alex will be channelling Sir Mick Jagger, fronting The Rollin’ Clones, at The Vic, in Old Town.

The gig starts at 8pm and the singer, who has been with the group since 2007, aims to paint Swindon black with a set brimming with Stones classics.

Alex, who lives in Hertfordshire, said: “It has been a little while since we’ve played Swindon and this is the first time we’ve been to this venue – so we are really looking forward to it.

“We try to take people back to seeing the Stones in their prime without the huge tickets prices they’d have to pay now. It is very energetic being Mick, so I have to keep myself fit, but if you’re in a tribute act you try to do everything from the voice to the mannerisms.

“We promise a high energy gig with lots of great songs. We love performing as it is escapism for us a chance to be our heroes. Putting a setlist together is difficult as we attract people who want to hear he classics, as well as those who know the album tracks. It is a difficult balance but we enjoy it.”

The coolness of the Stones is a far cry from Eurovision cheese but Alex is relishing the opportunity to take part.

“It came about by accident. I heard the track, it's jazz heavy and I do like jazz, so sang the vocals," he said.

“I wasn’t expecting a call from the BBC asking me to represent the nation.

“It is a different type of singing but it isn’t really an issue on the voice. Although the BBC occasionally tell me to stop doing Jagger moves when we are rehearsing.”

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  • Britain's Eurovision entry Electro Velvet. Picture: BBC/Sarah Dunn

Electro Velvet’s track, Still In Love With You, has received a mixed response. But Alex feels the reaction is all part of the Eurovision experience.

“It is fair to say opinion has been divided but I see that as a good thing as it gets people talking.

"We are also the most viewed entry on YouTube and has received a positive response across Europe," he said.

"British people have a tendency to see Eurovision a little differently. I see this as all part of the pantomime though.

"I’m rather competitive and my target is to win. Whether we will, I don’t know, but if that’s my mentality it’ll ensure my performance is of the highest level.”

In preparation for the international event, Alex, will continue to tour with the Rollin’ Clones and thinks the live performances will aid Electro Velvet’s chances of success.

“The lads in the Clones have been great about me doing Eurovision and have been really supportive. I think they quite like the idea of seeing their faces in the tabloids,” he said.

“For me, I guess Eurovision is a little escapism from being Mick and being able to perform as myself at such a prestigious event, which is one of the most watched television events in the world.”

Tickets for the Rollin’ Clones show at the Vic cost £8 in advance and £10 on the door. Call 01793 535713 or email thevicswindon@gmail.com