JUST imagine how difficult it must be for former Squeeze songwriter/guitarist Chris Difford.

Chris penned such Squeeze classics as Up The Junction, Labelled With Love, Tempted, Is That Love? and Pulling Mussels From A Shell but spent all his time in the band behind the guitar.

Despite his limited vocal experience, the acclaimed songwriter is now embarking on a short solo tour promoting his new album I Didn't Get Where I Am.

"With Squeeze I sang on Cool For Cats and a couple of others but that was about it," says Chris, who recently performed at the Ocean FM Local Hero Awards at the De Vere Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton.

Previously Chris has been apprehensive about his vocals, but judging by his new album he has gained a new confidence.

"The album is a collection of songs which I've been working on for a while, including Playing With Electric Trains, which is an old Squeeze song that I wrote and this is how it was originally intended."

Since the break-up of Squeeze, Chris has also spent his time performing live with both Elvis Costello and the Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.

You can see Chris at The Brook, Southampton, on Thursday. For tickets and information, call the box office on 023 8055 5366.