The Darkness to play new Lowestoft venue for first homecoming gig

The Darkness reformed in 2011 and released their third album Hot Cakes

Lowestoft rockers The Darkness are to play their first ever gig in their hometown, to open a seafront venue.

The band, who previously said they could not find a suitable location for a homecoming show, are to play The Aquarium on Claremont Pier on Wednesday, 18 December.

Owner David Scott said it was "marvellous news" that the band would open the 820-capacity venue.

"It's a marriage made in heaven," Mr Scott said.

He said building work at the £300,000 venue has finished.

"We've just got to add the sound and lighting systems and fire escapes down to the beach - so we'll be ready in time for the gig," he said.

"Originally we said the venue wouldn't be ready in time, but the band's agents said we ought to take them as the gig at Norwich UEA on 16 December had sold out, so I then said we would take them."

Justin Hawkins wore a Lowestoft shirt in Great Yarmouth in 2003

'Loud bang'

Three members of the band, Dan and Justin Hawkins and Ed Graham went to school in Lowestoft, and a statement on their website expressed their delight at the announcement.

"We're driving home for Christmas and have added to the tour our first ever hometown show ... at Britain's furthest East venue - the Lowestoft Claremont Pier," the statement read.

The Grapevine, a website and magazine which covers the local music scene, said the venue was "much needed" in Lowestoft.

Publisher Sue Stone said: "Having a new venue is fantastic news for Lowestoft, because the town isn't on the touring map for bands and it is much needed.

"It's great that The Darkness are supporting it and it should get the venue up and running with a loud bang."

Ten years ago when they first had success, The Darkness claimed they had been unable to find a suitable venue in Lowestoft and had to play their December 2003 concert in neighbouring Great Yarmouth.