Mr McGrath was found hanged at his home in May after he was arrested on suspicion of committing child sex offences.

Fans of the comedy band feared they would disband in the wake of the 38-year-old's suspected suicide and subsequent revelations of allegations he had attempted to groom a teenage girl for sex.

But the three remaining members say they feel duty bound to continue performing.

Band member Ant Fields said: "We thought long and hard about packing it in. When something like that happens you question everything.

"But the reaction we've had from fans has been excellent and that is what has made us continue."

The Hotpots are popular across the region for their quirky take on traditional Lancastrian folk music. A large student following has helped them notch up a string of internet hits with songs such as Chippy Tea and He's Turned EMO.

The band played a low-key gig in Clitheroe earlier this month and are planning more later this year before making their hometown return at the Citadel next March.

Guitarist Ant believes the reaction among fans has justified their
decision to continue.

He added: "After it happened, the three of us sat down and had a big chat about everything, including stuff outside the band. I think there was a slow realization that this was something we had to do.

"It has been tremendously difficult these past few months. Something like that is just totally unexpected. We have been there for each other but it is still something that is very difficult to talk about."

Detectives arrested Mr McGrath on April 27. His computer and mobile phone were seized and he was later suspended from his job as a music technology lecturer at St Helens College.

He was on police bail at the time of his death.

An inquest will be held later this year into the circumstances surrounding his death once the police probe is concluded.