The van which held the kit, a white Peugeot Expert with the registration S18 HUF, was stolen from the driveway. The words "keep on drumming" were written on the side. Det Sgt Lee Price, of Greater Manchester Police, says:

"It is a brilliant opportunity for The Slow Show to support Elbow at this event and we want to make sure it's memorable for the right reasons and have this drum kit returned so it can go ahead as planned. If you know something about this burglary or where this drum kit is, please contact us."

Chris Hough, saddened by his loss, comments:

"My kit was custom made and so special to me. I am hoping the thief realises the kit will be easily recognised if they try to sell it and dumps it somewhere soon."

The crime almost meant a no show for The Slow Show as they are due to support Elbow at the concert free homecoming gig at Manchester Cathedral tomorrow.

Fortunately the band were offered several replacement kits, including one from former Smiths skinsman Mike Joyce.

So the show - or rather The Slow Show - still goes on as planned.

The gig is part of the BBC Radio 2 In Concert series and is due to be broadcast on Radio 2 from 20:00 BST on Thursday.

The Slow Show were chosen as support by BBC Introducing in Manchester and their set will be played out on that show.