THE Jive Aces are appearing at the Thameside Theatre in Grays on Saturday April 18.

Led by Thurrock-born string bass player, Ken Smith, 46, the band formed in 1989 when singer Ian Clarkson joined.

Ken, of Larkspur Close, South Ockendon, but now living in Sussex, said: “I would spend many evenings watching films in the wonderful State Theatre and at the Thameside.

“I remember going to the Thameside to watch the "Rockin" documentary "Hail Hail Rock n Roll" and an evening of Elvis films.

“This helped to introduce me to the world of Rock 'n' Roll and Jive music, which has been my profession for the last 20 years.”

Ken and the other five Jive Aces have toured the world from the Caribbean to Japan and from Israel to Canada and performed all over the United States and at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem.

He added: “It is great to return to my home town and to play at a venue where I grew up. I hope to see many old friends and look forward to being back in Thurrock.”

For information on the band visit www.jiveaces.com.

For tickets call the Thameside Box Office on 0845 300 5264.