THEY were one of pop's most influential bands and boasted two members with strong Trafford connections.

More than 25 years after they split up, the music of The Smiths inspires a respect that verges on reverence.

Later this month the Waterside Arts Centre plays host to The Smiths Ltd, a tribute act that will serve up some of the music that helped the originals achieve legendary status.

Johnny Turner takes on the Morrissey role and recalls several meetings with his idols.

He said: "I managed to clamber up onto the stage in Preston mid flight of Morrissey belting out a song & shook his hand shouting peace as I was man handled off by security, relieved to be thrown back into the crowd. There was more luck when at the end of the show I managed to obtain a piece of his discarded shirt."

He said the set at the Waterside will include classic numbers like Still Ill and Headmaster Ritual.

He added: I met Mike Joyce and Andy Rourke many years ago when they were backing Aziz and they were very nice, down to earth guys.

"As a band we met Mike Joyce at South nightclub when he was doing a DJ set with Clint Boon again he took time out to chat & was quite a funny guy.

"Probably the most enlightening moment was when we met Johnny Marr when he performed the opening ceremony of a new guitar shop on Jersey Street in Ancoats. He did a meet and greet with all in attendance, what can I say other than he`s uber cool."

* The Waterside Arts Centre presents The Smiths Ltd on September 26 at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from 0161 912 5616 or watersideartscentre.co.uk.

Did you see The Smiths live and would you like to share your memories and photographs? Write to Rick Bowen, Messenger, Alexander House, 94-6 Talbot Rd, Old Trafford, M16 0PG or email rbowen@nqnw.co.uk