Dave Hill’s Slade takes in Birmingham on farewell tour

Hill is also working on a solo album, produced by Django Holder, the son of his Slade bandmate, Noddy Holder.

He said Django Holder was a “fantastic” and special producer.

“I couldn’t have thought of a better person to work with. It’s nice for me because Nod’s been such a good friend and encouraging me to do this,” said Hill.

He added the album would probably be released in 2026, before he turns 80 on 4 April.

It is biographical, with songs about members of Slade and the people “who helped [him] make it, people in the Midlands”.

Mr Hill also spoke to BBC Radio WM about mental health, having been made an ambassador for mental health in the West Midlands and himself spoken about his struggles.

“I’m working with Lenny Henry’s sister and she said we need a voice,” he said.

“I said I’d be good at this because I understand the horrors of it.

“Sadly I lost my mom over it but she saw me make it before she died.”