NINETIES indie heroes Blur have reformed as Blur Accountancy Ltd, offering fans a wide range of financial services.

Former singer Damon Albarn said the band had talked about getting back together for several months before the recession presented them with the 'perfect opportunity' to do something involving money.

He added: "The music business can dazzle you with the tunes and the rhythms and the fancy guitars, but it's always been about the money for us. We like to see it move from one account to another. We like to touch it.

"I'll deal with taxation enquiries, while Alex handles the auditing side and Graham offers advice on VAT and payroll. The drummer will be on reception and do the photocopying. Clients can rest assured we're efficient, flexible and 100% off the charlie."

Former bassist Alex James said: "Our shared experience of seven-figure coke debts has given us an excellent understanding of the necessity of effectively managing one's personal, or indeed corporate, finances.

"And I find the varied functionalities of SAGE accounting software every bit as exciting as playing bass guitar to 30,000 screaming fans while completely ripped to the tits. Just in a different way."

Blur fan Christine Dawson, of Ludlow, who has become a client of the new firm, said: "At first I was disappointed that they weren't going to do a record or a stadium tour, but then I realised I did actually need some help with my VAT return.

"Damon was extremely helpful, giving a thorough but precise rundown of recent changes in tax legislation and how they might affect my business. However after our meeting I couldn't resist getting him to sign my tits with a marker pen."