World’s oldest pop band announce retirement after 68 years with final show set for Glastonbury

They've had quite the run.

The Searchers have been performing with different lineups since 1957.

Mike Pender and John McNally formed the Merseyside group, who are known as the "longest-running band in pop history."

The Searchers' Final Farewell Tour will come to an end at Glastonbury on June 27, which the band have said will be their final ever show.

Speaking to the BBC, McNally said: "A Glastonbury debut at 83, can anyone top that? I don't think life gets any better, does it?

"There will be a few nerves, but in a good way, and we'll be nicely warmed up from our shows in June. We can't wait to see our fans again for this incredible final farewell."

Bassist and singer Frank Allen, who joined the group in 1964, said: "I have played shows across the world with The Searchers for over 60 years; Glastonbury has always been an ambition that has eluded us - until now.

"The Searchers are finally performing at the greatest music festival of them all.

"What a way to round off a tour and a career. I can't wait to get up on stage and give our fans one final blast."

The Liverpool group had three UK number ones, including their version of The Drifters' hit Sweets For My Sweet.

Their other hits include Sugar And Spice, Needles And Pins and Don't Throw Your Love Away.

Selling 50 million records during their almost-seventy-year run, they have drawn praise from the likes of Bruce Springsteen.

Their Farewell Tour begins on June 14 and ends at Glastonbury on June 27.