SEVENTIES Soul stars The Real Thing brought their unique sound to Stroud as the Sub Rooms, opened for its first capacity show in 18 months.

Surviving members Chris Amo and Dave Smith – now in their 70s and still on the road after 50 years together – combined strong voices for all their biggest hits Can You Feel The Force, Can’t Get By Without You and the perennial You To Me Are Everything.

The more soulful side of their repertoire was highlighted by Children of The Ghetto, penned by the band in recognition of their community in 70s Liverpool, which was later successfully covered by Earth Wind and Fire, and Mary J Blige.

New Sub Rooms chef Lawrence Kapoor recreated a classic 70s menu with a twist – prawn cocktail, chicken chasseur and Black Forest brownies – which was much enjoyed by pre-show diners looking for a complete evening of 70s nostalgia.