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

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

Ken, originally from 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 documentary Hail, Hail Rock ’n’ Roll and an evening of Elvis films.

“This helped introduce me to the world of rock ’n’ roll and jive music, which has been my profession for the past 20 years.”

Ken and the other five Jive Aces have toured the world from the Caribbean to Japan and from Israel to Canada. They have performed all over the United States, including 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 3005264.