MANCHESTER legends The Happy Mondays have announced that a new album is definitely in the pipeline, and that they will be touring the UK.

The band have signed a deal with Sanctuary records, and will release their first new material since 1992's Yes, Please.

Over the last 15 years Shaun Ryder has been busy kicking the drugs, while maraca man Bez won the hearts of the nation on Celebrity Big Brother.

The new album will be produced by US hiphop producer Sonny Levine, grandson of Quincy Jones, and mixed by Bjork and U2 producer Howie B.

The band will play at the Ritz, in Manchester, on July 8. Tickets go on sale on Friday at 9am, cost £28.50 and are available from www.gigsandtours.com, or by ringing 0871 2200 260.