A Basildon-born pop group is selling out more concert venues than chart-topping artists Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber.

Depeche Mode, which formed in Basildon in 1980, has never released a number one song in America but have been selling more tickets than some of the biggest names in the business.

During the first nine months of 2017, the band sold 1.27 million tickets, making that its most successful run so far.

Speaking with Bloomberg, guitarist and lead songwriter Martin Gore, 56, said: “Every time we go out and tour, we’re playing to more people.

“It’s just incredible at this stage in our career.”

In October the band set new records after selling out four consecutive shows at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

The open-air venue in the Hollywood Hills has accommodated names such as the Beatles, Pavarotti and Elton John.

Currently on its second tour through Europe, the band will head to Latin America in the new year before headlining the Isle of Wight Festival next summer.

The band will play alongside Liam Gallagher, The Killers and Kasabian.

Mr Gore added: “We are looking forward to seeing you at The Isle of Wight Festival in 2018.”

The festival’s 50th birthday celebrations will take place from June 21 to 24 at Seaclose Park, Newport.