The Searchers to end 68-year stint at Glastonbury

The Searchers will end nearly 70 years of touring with their debut at the Glastonbury Festival.

The Merseybeats band, formed by Mike Pender and John McNally, have performed with different line-ups since its formation in 1957.

Known as the “longest-running band in pop history”, the Liverpool band had three UK number ones, including with their version of The Drifters’ hit Sweets For My Sweet.

The Searchers’ Final Farewell Tour will conclude at Glastonbury on 27 June, which the band said will be its “last ever show”.

McNally said: “A Glastonbury debut at 83, can anyone top that? I don’t think life gets any better, does it?

“There will be a few nerves, but in a good way, and we’ll be nicely warmed up from our shows in June. We can’t wait to see our fans again for this incredible final farewell.”

Bassist and singer Frank Allen, who joined the group in 1964, said: “I have played shows across the world with The Searchers for over 60 years; Glastonbury has always been an ambition that has eluded us – until now.

“The Searchers are finally performing at the greatest music festival of them all.

“What a way to round off a tour and a career. I can’t wait to get up on stage and give our fans one final blast.”

The Searchers’ hits also include Sugar And Spice, Needles And Pins and Don’t Throw Your Love Away.

They have sold more than 50 million records and performed worldwide, while drawing praise from artists such as Bruce Springsteen.

The band’s Final Farewell Tour runs from 14 June and will end with a performance on the Acoustic Stage at Glastonbury on 27 June.