JOE Brown is a one off and there's no question about it, according to critics and fans.

And a local audience at Cheltenham Town Hall will have the chance to see just how unique he is, because Joe's on tour and heading this way.

A spokesman said: "The cheeky chappie with the cockney accent has forded the tides of change, weathered the decades and bridged assorted musical genres with a stellar aplomb unrivalled.

"His capacity to impress and amaze never falters. And now, following a mega successful trial run last year, Joe embarks on his first National solo tour. There's no band, no supplementary backup musicians, no dancing girls - just Joe Brown, unadulterated, upfront and personal."

The spokesman added: "Of course Joe Brown MBE is well known for being one of the UK’s original rock ‘n’ roll guitar pioneers. More recently, since The Concert For George, he’s become the leading light and staunch champion of the ukulele. His history is unique and remarkable.

"From the days of music hall and growing up in an East End pub through the skiffle era of Lonnie Donegan then jumping, almost overnight, into rock’n’roll, Joe’s seen it all. Keith Richards respects him, George Harrison loved him, the Beatles supported him, Mark Knopfler plays with him. The man is unique. To say this man has a few stories is an understatement - and on this tour he’s going to tell them."

Anecdotes and the odd joke or two will be interspersed with some of the music that has made a sought after performer today. And, if that weren’t enough, he’s got an old friend along too.

The spokesman said: "Special Guest for the night will be guitar maestro Henry Gross. No slouch himself at the odd drollery and raconteuring, Henry was the lead guitarist, singer and founder of hit US group Sha Na Na. He was also the youngest musician to appear at Woodstock. To say he’s a superlative musician would be an understatement."

The date for the diary is March 1. Tickets on 0844 5762210.