A band that usually plays pubs and weddings has landed the gig of a lifetime.

Three Men And A Bass have been asked to play at a glittering VIP reception backstage at Sir Elton John's concerts at Harewood House tomorrow and Monday.

The Bradford-based group landed the booking through a contact who had hired them for a residency at the Hilton Hotel, Leeds.

Last night they had a warm-up gig in the humble surroundings of the Black Bull in Clayton.

Saxophonist and singer David Wilson, from Clayton, said: "It's amazing to be going from playing our local pub to playing to all the VIPs as they arrive.

"We don't exactly know who will be there but it's really exciting. We also don't know whether Sir Elton will be dropping in or not. I've heard he's a bit of a recluse but from other people I've heard he's a nice guy." The superstar will be playing a solo set at the stately home, which will be turned into a 14,000-capacity venue for the two shows.

Three Men and A Bass, who will be playing from 5pm to 8pm both days, were formed about five years ago by David and double- bass player Vince Deary, who also lives in Clayton. Originally they were a trio, with their line-up completed by guitarist Richie Williams, from Brighouse. Since then they have recruited drummer Leigh Stothard from Bingley, and pianist and trombonist Andrew Wild, from Burnley.

The lads, whose repertoire ranges from cover versions of jazz and rock 'n' roll classics to Motown favourites and hits by Van Morrison and Elvis Costello, have also been invited to play at Leeds United's annual awards ceremony at Elland Road for the past three years. And they have an exciting booking to look forward to next month - they're being flown to Sitges, near Barcelona, where they will play at a wedding.

"They've sorted us everything out over there and have hired everything we need," said David.

"But the one thing they couldn't get hold of was a double bass, so we've booked an extra seat for it on the plane so we can take it over."

Three Men And A Bass also have a CD in the pipeline, recorded live at The Junction in Queensbury.

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