The Damned may not be stadium stars but they have a large and loyal following.

This was no directionless thrash but a tight and polished set that must have involved many hours of practice. Age may be catching up with the band but it hasn’t spoiled their enthusiasm or commitment to their craft. If anything their performance is improving with time.

Wearing his trademark red beret and white framed dark glasses, Captain Sensible was the ultimate frontman interacting and reaching out to the crowd. He also gave a virtuoso performance on lead guitar. The lead vocals came from the more gothic figure of David Vanian whose distinctive basso vocals were outstanding.

The concert included songs from across the years but included some of The Damned’s major hits such as New Rose, Neat Neat Neat as well as a brilliant cover version of Paul Ryan's Eloise. The evening was rounded off with the band’s classic tribute to punk, Smash It Up.

The anniversary tour will take in venues across the UK, America and Europe reaching its climax with a 40th anniversary concert at the Royal Albert Hall on May 20.

Four stars