TAKE That returned to the North East in spectacular style last night – complete with robots, giant caterpillars and high wires – as they kicked off their UK tour at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light.

Excitable fans from across the UK travelled to the North East for the huge gig, part of their Progress stadium tour, which ends with a record eight days at the Wembley Arena in London.

But the 50,000-strong crowd had to wait for the full five-strong line-up to appear as the band made their way onto stage to a rendition of their opening anthem, Rule The World, minus returning star Robbie Williams.

Williams rejoined Take That for last year’s Progress album after quitting the line-up in 1995, paving the way for years of acrimony. He held off rejoining when the band reformed for a series of shows in 2006, instead concentrating on his solo career.

But the factions eventually buried the hatchet and they secretly entered a recording studio in 2009.

It was Howard Donald who got the crowd in the mood last night when he told fans how the boys love to start their in Sunderland – they also kicked off their last UK tour at the stadium two years ago – because it is their lucky charm.

“Who cares about the rain?” said Gary Barlow, referring to the downpour which began moments before the band took the stage. “We’re from up north – we’re used to it.”

Within minutes Mark Owen was riding a huge caterpillar on stage as the group sang an Alice in Wonderland-themed Shine.

Williams eventually dropped 40ft to the stage by harness to begin his section of the concert with his huge hit Let Me Entertain You, going on to play some of his biggest solo hits, including Rock DJ.