A guitarist in an Oxford "indie" band has won a dream transfer deal - to the biggest group of the 1990s, Oasis.

Andy Bell, the bassist in Hurricane No.1, is the latest recruit for the chart-topping act made famous by Mancunian brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher.

Oasis's albums, What's The Story Morning Glory and Be Here Now, have sold millions both sides of the Atlantic, featuring smash hits, including Wonderwall, Roll With It, Some Might Say, and Stand By Me.

While Oasis can expect to make a fortune with their forthcoming album, Standing On The Shoulders Of Giants, Hurricane No.1 have never sold records by the bucket-load. Their biggest hit to date is Only The Strongest Will Survive did get a lot of air-play. A big name on the local indie circuit, Hurricane No. 1 have fans in high places and have appeared several times on Chris Evans's TFI Friday show.

The Gallagher brothers advertised for new recruits earlier this year when two original band members quit.

If Andy Bell rolls with it for long enough he could soon be playing Knebworth instead of the Zodiac on Cowley Road.

He was on holiday in Sweden and unavailable for comment last night.

Story date: Tuesday 23 November

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