BOB Kerr is a busy man. But between playing with the re-formed Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, organising his own festival, playing gigs in Germany and marvelling at the fact that his Whoopee Band has been going for 40 years, he still finds time to perform at Little Witley Hall.

In fact, he returns there year after year, playing in front of the same faces and catching up with old friends.

"It's just a nice atmosphere," he said. "You can play all the big concerts and festivals, but this has that edge."

After the intimate Little Witley gig Bob and the band, who this year celebrate 40 years together, will perform at the Stradbroke Real Ale and Jazz Festival, which Bob helps to organise.

The weekend event, in Bob's home town of Stradbroke in Suffolk, is a jazz extravaganza as well as a chance for music lovers to sample plenty of real ale.

Then it is off Scandinavia and Germany and, after that, he will be recording with the Bonzos and releasing a CD. Hardly time to breathe, but Bob takes it all in his stride.

"Travelling as we do, we are kind of going on holiday when we play gigs. When you're not touring, you do get time to sit back."

Bob recently played Worcester's Huntingdon Hall and the band regularly play at Upton Jazz Festival during the summer months.

For tickets to see Bob Kerr's Whoopee Band at Little Witley Hall on Friday, April 13, call Vernon Ashley on 01886 888834.

lauren murray