TICKETS to see a theatre legend in Colchester sold out within hours of being released.

Iconic stage figure Sir Ian McKellen will be at the Mercury Theatre in April as part of an 80-date tour of the UK which coincides with his 80th birthday.

The tickets went on sale today, and were sold out within a few hours.

Profits and his wage from each of the shows from Ian McKellen On Stage will go to the theatre with each venue being able to spend the money on whatever it thinks is right.

Sir Ian has links to Colchester after David Forder - the founder of the Mercury Theatre - handed him his professional debut on the boards.

Cash from the show will go to Colchester's Headgate Theatre, where his sister Jean used to perform, and the Mercury Rising project which aims to raise £1.9million to allow for works on the building to be completed.

His performance dates are April 17 and 18 next year.