KENNY BALL who for 40 years has brought the complex melodies of traditional jazz to the masses, is back in town playing at the Layton Institute, Westcliffe Drive, Blackpool, on Thursday November 8.

The band's success took off in the 1960s when Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen had their first chart hit with Samantha. From then onwards the band has released hit after hit until, after 14 top thirty records, the band's chart success succeeded that of Kenny's idol Louis Armstrong.

In fact, Kenny's impressive record of achievement, which includes a top two hit in both the UK and the USA, has never been equalled by any other jazz artist.

The band became a household name during a four year stint on the Morecambe and Wise Show and Saturday Night at the Mill, where they perfected the art of combining great jazz with wonderful entertainment.

With more than 200 dates a year -- 50 in Europe -- Kenny's pulling power remains potent as he continues to appeal to audiences both old and young throughout the world.

Kenny and his Jazzmen -- Hugh Ledigo (piano and vocals), John Bennett (trombone), John Benson (double bass and vocals), Nick Mill Ward (drums and vocals) and Andy Cooper (clarinet and vocals) -- are at the Layton Institute on Nov 8 and tickets are on sale for £7.50.