Here's something that will give hope to all budding musicians -- and anyone who has ever dreamed of getting a band together and taking on the world.

Just over three years ago a couple of lads from Eynsham, near Oxford, got some instruments and put together a four-piece.

After losing the bass player and firing the drummer, the guys -- both called Ben -- found a van, played a few gigs and became world-famous rock stars.

Ben Thomas and Ben Perrier don't let go of a dream. Which is why their band Winnebago Deal is one of the hottest new UK rock acts around.

Still in their 20s, the Bens have captured the eardrums of the nation with their high-octane riffage, pounding rhythms and terrifying vocals.

After more than 120 shows since March, Winnebago Deal count both Fugazi and Burning Brides among their fans, and have been special guests of the Blood Brothers and Kinesis.

But has the highway to the 'big time' really been that easy for the band known to their fans as 'The Deal'?

"It's gone better than I expected," admits a laid-back and surprisingly modest Ben Perrier, 22, from his girlfriend's home in Reading.

Winnebago Deal were nominated in the Best British Newcomer category at last year's Kerrang Awards, played the Reading and Leeds Festivals, recorded mini-album Plata O Plomo on the influential Fierce Panda label, released a single (Manhunt) and a split 7" with Nebula, completed a European tour and recorded two Radio 1 sessions.

Next month sees the release of an EP (George Dickel) and there will be a debut album by summer.

Behind the apparent escalator ride to the top lies months of hard work. Ben T learnt bass guitar, then mastered the drums from scratch. "We just kept plugging away until something good happened," says Ben P.

Tomorrow the band play a Valentine's Day homecoming gig at the Zodiac.

Ben says: "Some people think on a small scale, but Oxford is not the be all and end all -- or England -- we are global. We will take what we are doing as far as we can!"

But he is in no danger of losing sight of his origins: "I am from Eynsham and still live with my parents," he says. "It's fun and we keep what we need there for when we get back."

Winnebago Deal are supported by Amplifier at the St Valentine's Massacre show at the Zodiac, Cowley Road, Oxford. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are £6 in advance or £7 on the door. Call 01865 420042.