If you recognise the face of the lead singer of up-and-coming band FranKo it’s because he is probably better known for his TV and film credits.

He stars alongside Kris Marshall in BT’s TV adverts and also won a cult following for his role as Dave the Laugh in the film Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging.

But 19-year-old Tommy Bastow is also carving a music career with his bandmates – Rich Craker, 18, on guitar, Chris Gilbertson, 18, (bass) and drummer Beau Poynts, 20.

And the band, who have been together three years and developed their own unique sound, have much to look forward to.

The new year sees the release of their single – a cover of the Ultravox classic Vienna, which is endorsed by Midge Ure – along with two of their own tracks.

And they will launch their UK Usual Suspects tour.

Tommy, from Epsom, admits he had not heard the original version of Vienna, now 30 years old.

He says: “I heard Rich’s version first – which is soon to be FranKo’s version – and then I heard the original.”

But before that, and closer to home, they headline a seven-band line-up at RockStock’s Christmas bash.

Also on the bill are Change Persona, the Velvetones, Katalyst, We Forgot Kevin, the Kicks and Stone Free.

It will be a sublime return for the boys who have played a couple of RockStock gigs before and recognise its role helping young bands showcase their talents.

Tommy says: “It’s really good for youngsters to get together with a group of mates, put together some music and show it to an audience.

“The crowd at RockStock is always good as well. We’ve played there twice as FranKo. The last time it was completely run by solar power.”

RockStock Xmas Bash, Wallington Halls, Stafford Road, December 17, 7pm, £8.50. Call 07832 102510 or visit myspace.com/rockstocklive for details.