AFTER filling the Grand Opera House a record seven times, York party band Huge needed a new challenge.

They decided to take on the Barbican Centre: the venue where Robbie Williams did not sell out; nor did Criag David; but these cheesy chancers have done so now.

Huge play their fromage-heavy brand of brassy nonsense at a brimful Barbican tomorrow (1st) in a 7.30pm charity show.

Singer Big Ian says: "We've supported the likes of Atomic Kitten, Liberty X and Mis-Teeq this year but this show is the biggest thing we've taken on. We've formed a 20-piece band specially for the evening to play anything from Sinatra and Andy Williams to James Brown and Robbie Williams."

The Barbican Centre will be "totally transformed" for the night thanks to event sponsors KitKat Chunky and the Evening Press, with free chocolate for the audience.

"The gig is a tribute to Brian Wilkinson - the father of our trombone player Stu - who died earlier this month. His love of big bands inspired us to use a big-band line-up at the Barbican," says Big Ian.

Donations at tomorrow's show will go to leukaemia charities. For returned tickets only, ring 01904 656688.

Updated: 09:31 Friday, October 31, 2003