Stepping into the shoes of Sixties icon Jim Morrison was a daunting prospect, even for a seasoned rock star like Ian Astbury. He spoke to JOHN ANSON about life with The Doors. . .

TALKING to Ian Astbury about his experiences fronting The Doors of the 21st Century you can sense the wonder in his voice.

"I've waited 30 years to do this. I consider myself to be so honoured. It is almost a spiritual experience," he said.

The former Cult lead singer had no doubts about accepting the offer to take the place of one of rock's most iconic performers.

The late Jim Morrison is worshipped by fans of The Doors and his dramatic stage presence made him the ultimate frontman.

With lazy curls, a distinctive vocal style and a brooding presence of his own, it's easy to see why original Doors Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger asked Ian to tour with them.

"I don't try to impersonate Jim in any way," said Ian. "I certainly don't see myself as stepping into his shoes. That would be impossible."

The Doors of the 21st Century have been no strangers to controversy. Former band members and even relatives tried to stop the band going on the road and the unwieldy name is due to various legal wrangles.

But Ian is adamant that the live performances have won over the detractors.

"The audiences have been very warm," he said. "The most encouraging thing has been the reaction of those people who were close to The Doors.

"What we are doing is very special. Ray and Robby felt that they wanted to play one last time. We've only done 40 shows and each one of them has been very special.

"For me, as a lifelong fan, it's an amazing experience. To hear these guys play the songs they wrote is an honour.

"Also, they are monsters at playing live. Sometimes I will just stand there in awe and watch them.

"I will be around to perform as long as they want to. I believe what we are doing is very much in the spirit of The Doors. I know what an audience expects and there are certain signatures to certain songs that I have to sing like Jim -- it's the only way to do them."

Even Ian was taken aback by one of the more outlandish claims about his on-stage appearance.

"There was a rumour that I put on a wig just before going on stage so I looked more like Jim," he laughed. "I've got Scottish hair. It's naturally curly and fashionably long."

But he is far more serious about the effect of playing with The Doors of the 21st Century has had.

"It's been like the university education I never got," he said. "A real master class."

As well as his work with the band, Ian's also been working on new material which he describes as dirty rock and roll.

"Through thick and thin I'll be there for Ray and Robby," he said.

The Doors of the 21st Century play Manchester Arena on Sunday, July 12. Details from the ticket hotline on 0870 190 8000.