THE legendary jazz and blues artist Georgie Fame will open this year’s Jazz Jurassica festival.

The jazz legend will play the Lyme Regis festival on Thursday, May 24 and will perform a special concert at The Marine Theatre on what is rumoured to be his last-ever UK tour.

This year’s busy festival line-up also features the iconic James Taylor Quartet, award-winning jazz singer Liane Carroll and saxophonist Fliss Gorst’s swing band.

As well as ticketed events, there will be hours of free music on the seafront and around the town, many showcasing local talent, including young musicians from music charity BSharp at its annual Busking Festival.

Julie Sheppard, festival organiser, said: “It’s a real coup for Georgie Fame to open the festival, which we’re delighted to do in conjunction with The Marine Theatre.

"This is a ‘not to be missed’ opportunity to see a jazz legend perform up close in one the country’s most intimate venues."

Fame’s concert adds a fifth day to the Jazz Jurassica weekend, previously known as Lyme Regis Jazz and Blues Weekend. Held over the May Spring Bank Holiday, organisers say the 2018 programme will be bigger and more varied than ever.

“Jazz Jurassica builds on the growing reputation and success of previous years.This year we’ve got swing, latin, funk, soul, gypsy jazz and even jazz reggae!” said Julie.

“It’s a real treat for jazz lovers and for those who say they don’t like jazz. We can promise to entertain and excite – and even surprise you. Lyme Regis will be THE musical destination this Spring Bank Holiday weekend. Bring it on!”

Georgie Fame has more than 20 albums and 14 hit singles to his credit, including three top ten hits: YehYeh, Get Away, and The Ballad of Bonnie and Clyde.

During his 40-year career he’s collaborated with the likes of Muddy Waters, Gene Vincent, Bill Wyman, Eric Clapton, and Van Morrison

*Jazz Jurassica – Lyme’s festival of jazz – Thursday, May 24 to Monday, May 28. See jazzjurassica.co.uk for more information. Buy tickets from Lyme Regis TIC or by calling 01297 442138.