THERE'S no denying that Jools Holland is one of the most important people in British music today - just look at his credentials.

He received an OBE from the Queen for his services to music in 2003, he has hosted his own music programme, Later With Jools Holland which is now on series 22 and he hobnobs with the most elite musicians, namely Elton John and Mary J Blige.

So it comes as no surprise that southern fans rubbed their hands with elated glee when they learned that the highly acclaimed musician and composer would be gracing Portsmouth with his presence this weekend.

Jools, who has even dabbled in musical direction of films and has leant his face to a publicity campaign for a famous brand of whisky, will be performing live on stage alongside his renowned Rhythm and Blues Orchestra at Portsmouth Guildhall tomorrow.

The night also promises special guests who will take to the stage and knowing of the high calibre musical circles Jools moves in, audiences could be in for a big surprise.

Portsmouth Guildhall. Saturday, November 13. Tickets: £25.50. Box office: 023 9282 4355.