AS legendary live act Status Quo prepare to embark upon their very last tour featuring electric rock music, Hampshire rockers Strapped for Cash have been booked to join them.

The Southampton band will support Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt at their show at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool on April 28.

The six-piece rock band are no strangers to supporting major artists, having appeared on stage with Eric Clapton last summer in front of an audience of 4,000, enjoying a standing ovation after their 50-minute set.

"This is a huge thrill for us" said Rod Bransgrove, the Chairman of Hampshire Cricket who performs with Strapped For Cash in his spare time.

"Status Quo are rock icons and have been for some 50 years. To play in the same show as them is a major achievement for our band."

Strapped for Cash were formed five years ago following a number of party gigs and jam sessions involving Rod and his friends Sean McMenemy, the son of celebrated former Saints manager Lawrie, Tim Payne and Chris Pope.

They were joined by Malc Eyres and Solly Reid, who are both long-term members of Rufus Stone the much loved eight-piece soul/motown show band, in 2011.

The band have gone from strength to strength ever since, playing regular gigs around the county and releasing two singles and an EP.

Strapped For Cash are planning more gigs during the summer, including a special show at the Theatre Royal Winchester on May 29.

They also hope to release a new single and complete their first album before the end of the year.