Blur announce live BBC radio show

Blur are to play a live show for BBC radio, ahead of their comeback gigs in London's Hyde Park in August.

The performances, at the BBC's Maida Vale studios, will be broadcast on Radio 2 and 6 Music at the end of July.

Earlier this month the reunited band debuted two new songs online during a live streamed performance from a west London rooftop.

The band's comeback gigs at London's Hyde Park will coincide with the closing ceremony of the Olympics.

The BBC shows, on 31 July, will include songs from the band's back catalogue, which stretches back over 21 years.

The band will be interviewed by 6 Music presenter Steve Lamacq from 4pm; an hour-long concert will be broadcast on Radio 2 from 8pm.

The event will be aired live on each of the station's websites. In addition, listeners will have the opportunity to win tickets to the live performances at Maida Vale.

Jeff Smith, head of music at Radio 2 and 6 Music, said: "This year marks a huge milestone for Blur as a band. The contribution they have made to the history of British music cannot be underestimated."