‘It would be tragic if our fans cannot find us’: Jazz band fears fans will miss show due to Theale High Street roadworks

A jazz band is worried its fans will miss its performance due to ongoing roadworks in Theale High Street.

SGN started a 10-week project to replace a gas main in the High Street last Wednesday (January 29).

But this news came as a concern for Graeme Hewitt, whose ‘High Society Jazz Band’ is performing at Theale Village Hall tomorrow (Tuesday).

“With the confusion these road closures have created, it would be tragic if our fans cannot find us,” said Mr Hewitt, a familiar face at the hall for more than 15 years.

A one-way lane closure is in place for traffic travelling west along the High Street towards Station Road – although this hasn’t stopped some motorists from breaking the restriction, according to comments posted on social media.

Motorists have to follow a diversion route via Church Street, The Green, The Bath Road, Hoad Way and vice versa. But motorists travelling east will remain unaffected.

Mr Hewitt continued: “My musicians are joining me from London, Southampton and Birmingham.

“To miss this unique collection of musicians playing traditional jazz is a once in a life-time opportunity.”

Mr Hewitt added his band used to play at the hall every Tuesday until switching to a monthly basis due to “age”.

Mr Hewitt, on the clarinet, will be joined by Mark Aston (saxophone and trombone), Mike Bennett (bass) and Ian Gilchrist (keyboard).

Guest performers include Mike Henry (trumpet), Jools Aldridge (drums) and Paul Sealey (banjo).

The show will be running from noon to 2pm.

Tickets cost £10 on the door and includes a free raffle.

Contact 01256 780065 for more information.

How have the High Street roadworks affected you? Share your thoughts with us at newsdesk@newburynews.co.uk