A COMEDY legend is coming to Thurrock for a one off gig and to sign copies of his new autobiography.

Known as one of the most outspoken comedians of his time, Jimmy Jones, now 72, currently living in Upminster and he is getting ready to perform at the Circus Tavern in Purfleet and his book signing at Lakeside.

Jimmy told the Gazette: “The book has taken years of hard work, it is my life without any lies. This year I have been in the entertainment business for 50 years and I grew up around Thurrock, in Rainham. I started my career performing in working men’s clubs and I performed at Grays many times.

“I am really looking forward to performing at the Circus Tavern and meeting fans at the book signing, it will be like catching up with old friends.

“I love performing at the Tavern, it’s one of my favourite places.”

The autobiography is called Now This Is A Very True Story and it follows Jimmy’s personal life and career highlights.

Jimmy added: “I love making up new material. I find that I make up my gags from just chatting to everyday people about their experiences and then adding in jokes later.

“I love watching people in the audience nudge one another, especially couples, who say to each other “you do that” and then I know I have their attention.”

Jimmy says he wanted to become a priest when he was a child because he went to a Catholic school but was told by a nun when he was 14 that “God has given me the talent to entertain”.

Jimmy will be signing copies of his new book at WH Smith in Lakeside on Saturday, November 13 from 2pm to 3pm and fans must buy the book from the shop.

And he will be performing at the Circus Tavern in Arterial Road, Purfleet on Friday, December 11 from 7.15pm till late.

You must be over 18 to attend and tickets are £12.50 each.

Call the box office on 01708 863 838 or log onto www.circustavernnightclub.com