CORONATION Street star William Roache will be taking to the stage in Ipswich, it has today been announced.

CORONATION Street star William Roache will be taking to the stage in Ipswich, it has today been announced.

The actor, best known as Ken Barlow in the long running soap opera, will compere at the Royal Air Force bands' concert at the Ipswich Regent on Saturday November 22.

The concert features the Central Band of the Royal Air Force, based at RAF Uxbridge

Mr Roache said: “I was delighted to be asked to work with the Bands of the Royal Air Force again, and I'm looking forward to taking part in a very special concert, celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force.”

A spokesman for The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises said: “The band is augmented by the big-band sound of the Squadronaires plus the Salon Orchestra, a quintet of musicians who provide a stringed element to the performance.

“And the special anniversary programme promises a mix of light classics, jazz, big band and music from the shows to appeal to all ages.

“The musical journey, reflecting the Service's past, present and future, includes a triumphant finale, reminiscent of the Last Night of the Proms.”

David Mansfield, theatre manager said: “We are delighted to welcome the Central band of the Royal Air Force to the theatre. This will be a fantastic concert and is a great part of our autumn 2008 programme.”

Tickets are available from the Ipswich Regent on 01473 433 100 and are priced at £13.50, £16.50 and £19.50.

Are you a Coronation Street Fan? Have you heard the Central Band of the Royal Air Force? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk