WHEN it comes to staying power, Andy Bell and Vince Clarke could teach today's new pop stars a thing or two.

The duo, better known as Erasure, first entered the top 40 back in October 1986, when they went straight in at number two with Sometimes.

Eighteen years and numerous hits later, they are still at the top of their game.

They sold out their last tour and have just announced that they will be back on the road early next year, with a UK tour bringing them to Portsmouth Guildhall in the spring.

Given the band's previous form tickets for the concert, which takes place on March 13, are likely to sell very quickly so don't delay in buying yours.

Last year Erasure had their 29th consecutive UK Top 40 with a remix of Oh L'Amour from Hits! The Very Best of Erasure.

Among their biggest hits are A Little Respect, Blue Savannah, Drama! and the Abba-Esque EP.

They have recently completed work on a new album, Nightbird, which is due for release next January. This will be their first album of new material since 2000's acclaimed album Loveboat.

Tickets for Erasure at Portsmouth Guildhall are priced £22.50.

For more information, call the box office on 023 9282 4355.