The Hollies showed at the packed Theatre Royal just why they scored hit after hit through the 1960s.

The current incarnation captured the magic so well they had 90 per cent of the crowd standing, dancing and singing by the time the encore Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress wound up a joyful evening.

Hearing catchy pop like Just One Look , the romantic Yes I Will and Look Through Any Window, it was difficult to believe they had only one UK 1960s number one hit, the excellently performed I’m Alive.

The simplicity of Carrie Anne and charm of Jennifer Eccles contrasted with the more sophisticated approach of King Midas in Reverse.

Only Tony Hicks and Bobby Elliott of the current band were in the 1960s group, and extended versions of some hits like On A Carousel let Hicks show what a fine guitarist he is.

Strong singing by lead vocalist Peter Howarth on much-loved anthems including The Air That I Breathe and the ecstatically received He Ain’t Heavy (He’s My Brother) made sure they hit their trademark harmonies on the spot.

Nostalgia or not, it was memorable to hear such fine pop songs played live so well.