Chrissie Hynde's The Pretenders to play The Great Escape in Brighton

The Pretenders have been announced as a huge addition to the festival’s line-up for an exclusive set on The Independent Stage at The Old Market, Brighton.

Formed by Chrissie Hynde in 1978, the band enjoyed huge success with hits such as 2000 Miles, Back in the Chain Gang, and Talk of the Town, with nearly two dozen members passing through, including a brief stint on lead guitar by Johnny Marr from The Smiths in 1988.

READ MORE: Brighton's Great Escape festival announces line-up update

And some 45 years since they first began, the group are still selling out shows across the country, and will head to Brighton amid a packed summer festival schedule.

The stage will be run by The Independent newspaper, whose Culture & Lifestyle News Editor, Roisin O’Connor, said: "It's the biggest thrill to have The Pretenders headlining The Independent's stage at The Great Escape festival.

"We can't wait to see what will undoubtedly be a typically visceral live show from one of the most fearless and respected bands around.

“Chrissie Hynde is one of the most iconic rock stars of all time and continues to influence generation after generation of musicians, many of whom will be playing the same stage as her this year."

On the partnership between The Independent and the festival, Roisin said: “The Great Escape festival is one of the go-to events for anyone looking to discover just how much the UK music scene is thriving.

"From rappers to rock bands, experimental jazz to lively pop-punk, it never fails to send you away with at least one favourite new act.

"With The Independent being such a huge champion of new music over the years, partnering with The Great Escape felt like an obvious choice.”

Anyone hoping to catch The Pretenders will need a festival wristband, though once the venue is at capacity no further entry will be permitted.

The Great Escape will see more than 450 artists play at the city’s top venues from May 10 to May 13.