A ROCK and roll circus has returned to Hereford more than 40 years after it started.

Mott the Hoople took to the stage at the Courtyard last Friday after the screening of the band’s documentary.

The Ballad of Mott the Hoople charts the band’s career from its 1960s origins in Hereford to international glam rock success.

The documentary was launched in London last autumn and is being screened locally as part of the Borderlines Film Festival.

Several members of the band, best known for All the Young Dudes, joined a question and answer session with excited fans at the premiere.

Three of the original local line-up – organist Verden “Phally” Allen, drummer Dale “Buffin” Griffin and guitarist Mick Ralphs – were joined by later guitarist Luther Grosvenor, manager Stan Tippins and Pretenders drummer Martin Chambers.

The film premiere comes two-and-a-half years after Mott reformed for a series of sell-out shows in Monmouth and Hammersmith.

Members told the audience they would like to reform again but could not speak for singer Ian Hunter, who did not attend.

“We were all chatting away after the film and I knew that question would come up,” said Allen, who instigated the 2008 reunion.

“We’d love to do it again but it depends on management and certain things. It might be a bit late in the day for this year.

“The other night was very good and we were very pleased. It was nice to be back in Hereford again.”

The film has been well received and contains original footage and recent interviews with band members, fans and David Bowie.

The documentary could get a DVD release in summer, while a DVD of Mott’s Hammersmith show is also planned.