Huge favourites at the Victoria Theatre, Halifax – the band played there only five months ago – the Quo will be back on stage in October as part of a 24-venue tour of the UK.

Tickets for the gig on Sunday, October 12 went on sale at 9am today at the theatre.

Marketing manager John Sell said: 2We're absolutely delighted that the legendary Status Quo will be making a return visit to the Victoria Theatre. This is really great news for their loyal fanbase in Calderdale.

"With all the improvements that have been going on backstage, including this year's refitting of the dressing rooms, the Victoria Theatre has consolidated its reputation as a first-class venue for top-name acts.

"Status Quo started performing at the theatre at the beginning of this process, back in 2004. We're already looking forward to welcoming them back to even better facilities in October."

Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt and co's traditional winter tour has special significance this year. Visiting venues the length and breadth of the country, the Pictures: 40 Years Of Hits tour offers Quo's army of fans the chance to again experience the magic of the band in full flight.

One of the world's most enduring and successful live acts, the mighty Quo have influenced a generation of musicians and entertained millions with their driving, no-nonsense brand of rock.

By the time Quo start the Pictures: 40 Years Of Hits tour they will already have performed shows in at least 12 other countries but the UK fans are the bedrock on which this band's success is built and they cannot wait to get started.

Francis Rossi said: "The 2008 UK tour is going to be very special for us. This year marks the 40th anniversary of our first ever hit single Pictures Of Matchstick Men. We are going to celebrate in style – there will be lots of surprises thrown in along the way – and we want all our true fans to join us at these special shows to be part of a piece of Quo history".