One of Britain’s best-loved big bands is bringing two nights of sensational music to the stage.

Pianist, singer and TV presenter Jools Holland will be bringing his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra to the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury - just a short drive from his home near Rochester.

The local musician, who now lives in the village of Cooling, began his career as a founding member of rock band Squeeze.

The group had a string of hits in the 1970s including Cool for Cats and Up the Junction.

He broke away from the band in 1980 and, over the next few years, would go onto release a number of solo records and present live music TV show The Tube with Paula Yates.

In 1987, the Jools Holland Big Band was first formed and, since then, it has continued to grow into what is now a 19-piece rhythm and blues orchestra.

The latest formation consists of a pianist, organist, drummer, three female vocals, guitar, bass guitar, two tenor saxophones, two alto saxophones, baritone saxophone, three trumpets and three trombones.

Since 2006, the performer has also become known for Jools' Annual Hootenanny, a TV show broadcast on New Year’s Eve in which Jools and his orchestra are joined by a range of musical guests.

In the past the show has featured performances from Ed Sheeran, Vic Reeves, Sir Tom Jones, Lulu, Michael Buble and Nile Rodgers, and was filmed last year at the Maidstone Studios.

The musician’s latest tour also boasts special guests, including Pauline Black and Arthur ‘Gaps’ Hendrickson from 2-tone band The Selecter and vocalists Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall.

Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra will be at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury on Thursday, June 8 and Friday, June 9. You can book tickets online here.

You can also book tickets by calling 01227 787787.