'It's like we're back in 1981, in a bubble of energy with our fans'

British music icons Duran Duran are playing a summer show in the heart of the West Country, where bass player John Taylor has made his home. We chat to John about his love for the region and why he's looking forward to visiting the Devon castle

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WHEN you've toured the world for 40-plus years, it's hard to believe there can still be corners of the UK where you are yet to play.

But for multi-award winning Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Duran Duran, that’s exactly what they found when their two exclusive summer concert venues were put forward - including one in the South West.

The eternally popular band will play TK Maxx presents Powderham at Powderham Castle near Exeter on Thursday, July 3, with very special guests Nile Rodgers & CHIC, and JC Stewart, before heading to Essex for Chelmsford City Live on Saturday, July 5.

And while south Devon is an area they haven’t played before, bassist John Taylor has his own special memories of a summertime celebration there many years ago.

"I was best man for my great friend Nick Egan at Powderham - he is an incredible artist, and director who has done a lot of work with Duran Duran and all sorts of other acts over the years,” John explained.

“It was a beautiful day, I remember that much... But it’s also pretty hazy memories!

“It was the first time I'd brought my now wife Gela to the UK - 27 years ago. We were very jetlagged, having flown in from LA, and I wanted to drive Gela around the Cotswolds before heading down to Exeter.

“I'd introduced Nick and Ann in LA about 18 months before, and Ann wanted a fairytale wedding at an English castle, which Nick’s mum found in Powderham.

“And now, Nick and Ann are coming to the Powderham show - and have even arranged to renew their vows while they’re there! It’s just after their wedding anniversary, and it’s Ann’s birthday the night we play - so it’s all come together amazingly.

“To be playing a wonderful venue we've never visited before, and combining it with a special day for some of my best friends will be fantastic.”