The eager crowd was lined up down the street before the doors opened, awaiting their chance to see the trailblazing act one last time. Younger punks with their freshly spiked mohawks traded stories in the line with more seasoned fans, some of whom seemed to have come straight from work so as not to miss a single moment of the night.

This is their final tour, billed as ‘The Final Damnation’ and celebrating 50 years of the iconic act. Over the years, their music has spanned several genres, from being pioneers of the british punk sound before exploring gothic rock and psychedelic influences.

No opening act, no time wasted, the band took to the stage early, making sure the crowd got exactly what they came for as they played two sets spanning their extensive back catalogue, opening with the 1985 track Street of Dreams from the album Phantasmagoria as lead singer Dave Vanian took to the stage in his iconic suit and hat, trading quips throughout the night with guitarist Captain Sensible. Throughout the night, the band played an impressive set list of classic anthems and some career-spanning deep cuts, fitting for their final farewell to the stage.

All photos by Ginny Cocks

The Damned