WHEN people ask whatever happened to the pop band Smokie, the answer is simple . . . the group has never been away.

The band is perceived to be a 70s success story, but since then few people realise the group has continued topping charts, gaining platinum records and appearing at sell-out concerts.

Members re-formed in 1986 for a charity concert in aid of victims of the tragic Valley Parade fire at Bradford City's ground.

In 1989, members were given a fresh contract by a record company. They recorded an album which then shot to number one in Scandinavia, knocking Paul McCartney off the top spot with his album "Flowers in the Dirt."

Every year since then Smokie has had a new album out and each has turned platinum, some multi-platinum, in places ranging from South America, South Africa, Russia, Scandinavia and even China.

All the while, the group was fading into a forgotten band in its home country, England. That is until this year, when plans for not only a new album but extensive tour were revealed.

Bolton fans get the chance to see the group -- albeit with a changed line up -- back in action at the Albert Halls on Tuesday, April 24.

Drummer Steve Pinnell, explained: "England is a very fashion-led music place and there was a lot of boy band success which made us avoid the country and concentrate abroad.

"It was suggested to us by the record company last year that cover versions are very popular at the moment and why not give it a go.

"We put 300 songs into the hat and picked out 20, 16 eventually making the album. We released it abroad and the success was phenomenal. It went triple platinum.

"Because of this it was suggested that we release it in England. We were reluctant, but thought we have our success elsewhere to back us up if it does not work out."

"Uncovered . . . The Very Best of Smokie" features cover versions plus some of the group's most famous songs.

The record company has backed it up with a TV campaign, and other exposure has seen the group featured in a six-part documentary for Yorkshire TV focusing on a recent visit to China.

Steve said: "So far, the concerts here have almost all been sold out. We did not expect to get the response we have. We're loving it!

"Ages of members of the audiences have ranged from 12 through to pensioners.

"It is also nice for our families to be able to come and see what we are doing. While having all the success abroad they, of course, have not had the chance to see us in action first-hand.

"We just hope it keeps on going as good as it currently is. We are all older and wiser now and accept whatever comes our way a little better.

"The group had 14 top 20 hits in the 70s. We just feel lucky the music hasn't dated and we can still play it in the Millennium.

"Acoustic rock is happening now with younger bands. In our live-show the most important thing is to get people clapping, dancing and singing. We want people to leave with a smile on their faces.

"I am looking forward to coming to Bolton. I have friends in the town, so it is going to be particularly enjoyable.

"We are being carried along by the crowd. Once we get bored we will know it is time to give up. But at the moment everything is going nicely.

"Besides we are still the new kids on the block compared to groups like the Rolling Stones . . ."

Tickets for the Albert Halls' show are £13.50 or £11.50 concessions, are from the box office on 334400.