Mr 'Slowhand' himself, the CBE of the blues and the most famous Eric (apart from 'Flat' and 'Bristow') has announced a few dates alongside an old sparring partner. Clapton will share the guitar spoils with Steve Winwood for the third time and also as part of a European jaunt.

The UK dates are at Birmingham's NEC/LG Arena on May 18th followed by two dates at the Wembley Arena on the 20th and 21st. Tickets will go on sale on Monday 14th December at 9am and will cost £67.15 for Wembley, and £60 for Birmingham - both plus booking fee.

Clapton and Winwood's paths have crossed before, of course. Blind Faith was a late 60s supergroup made up of these two guitar legends as well as the amazing Cream drummer, Ginger Baker, and Ric Grech (Family). One controversial album ensued (partly due to a topless young girl on the sleeve) and one arena tour. But the band split after just seven months and Winwood went back to his creative haven called Traffic (with Jim Capaldi). He had a few solo hits with 'While You See A Chance', 'Higher Love' [Tune! - Ed] and 'Valerie' before hitting the road with Eric on the 2007 Crossroads Guitar Festival. No doubt a few rarities will be aired from both guitarists' extensive catalogue.

Clapton will also perform with Jeff Beck in February. As previously announced, he will meet his Yardbirds successor at London's O2 Arena on the 13th and 14th. There are still a few tickets left for both dates (but not many) - prices start at £75.