On September 4 the Vic Cracknell Swing Band will be playing at the Lower Bourne Social Club in Farnham for the first time.

Perfect for dancing, they will be playing a mix of classic rock ’n’ roll, pop, swing and latin tunes. Expect classic songs from the likes of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Ray Charles, Elton John, Van Morrison and many more.

Vic said: “We are looking forward to playing at the club for the first time and hoping that some of our jive dancing followers might come to visit.

“It’s always such fun when there is a full dance floor, or just come and tap your toes and sing along. Hopefully people will leave with smiles on their faces. We also enjoyed playing on Farnham Bandstand this year.”

On September 12 Vic has a special gig at the Guildford Institute, with his Vic Cracknell Jazz Quintet celebrating the Great American Songbook.

He said: “I am looking forward to returning to the historic lounge at the Guildford Institute after a very successful gig last year. I will be singing great songs written by the likes of Cole Porter, Rodgers and Hart, Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, Harry Warren and more.

“These are songs made famous by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Torme and contemporary performers like Michael Bublé and Gregory Porter.

“For this seated gig, with bar, I will be talking about the history of Tin Pan Alley, with anecdotes accompanied by a top band. Andy Sturmey will be on their historic Bechstein grand piano. He has played for the likes of Shirley Bassey, Diana Ross, George Michael, Cliff Richard and many others, and on many West End shows.

“Duncan Lamont Jr will be on saxophone. He is a band leader, award winner and renowned player whose father toured with Frank Sinatra. Joe Yeadon will be on double bass, with Robin Lowrey from the Farnham Big Band on drums.

“It promises to be a terrific evening. The Guildford Institute has lots of events, talks and workshops worth seeking out. Tickets are just £15 and available from the Guildford Institute website or on 01483 562142.”

Meanwhile Vic is looking for a Farnham venue to renew the successful Sunday afternoon jazz - or a monthly jazz night - which was held at The Wheatsheaf until it changed hands recently.

Vic said: “In hearing of the tough times for the hospitality sector I am really surprised there hasn’t been any interest from the four or five Farnham venues I have visited offering to put on jazz in Farnham.

“I have some of the regular supporters asking me when jazz will be back somewhere in Farnham. Hopefully there is an enterprising venue out there looking for extra trade, perhaps on a normally quiet midweek night.”

Vic is continuing his first Thursday of the month open mic at the Bat and Ball in Farnham, which is celebrating its 15th year. All performers are welcome. Email Vic at [email protected] or call him on 07917 403052.