New Order are preparing for two live dates at Manchester's O2 Apollo at the end of April.

The influential band recently announced their first UK tour in more than five years, kicking off with the Manchester shows on Thursday April 26th and Friday April 27th.

Although original bassist Peter Hook has now left the group, keyboard player Gillian Gilbert recently rejoined New Order after a lengthy hiatus.

Founding members Bernard Sumner and Stephen Morris have now brought in Tom Chapman on bass duties, with the new-look band ready to hit the road once more.

With eight studio albums and countless singles to their name, New Order have plenty of material to draw on for their live return.

Fans will no doubt be hoping to hear classic tracks from the band's back catalogue such as Blue Monday, Regret and Bizarre Love Triangle, as well as more recent songs like Crystal and Krafty.

Tickets for the O2 Apollo concerts are available online, priced at £40.25. Doors at the venue will open at 19:00 BST.

Fans of the group can browse a large selection of Manchester hotels at ManchesterandHotel.com, including the City Warehouse Apartments.

Visit http://www.o2apollomanchester.co.uk/ or contact the venue on 08444 777 677 for further information.