Jools: 'It wouldn't be Christmas without a visit to Plymouth'

OOL Holland and the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra's yuletide visit to the city has become almost as customary as the Christmas pantomime and this year is no exception.

- BY CLARE ROBINSON

"My grandparents used to live in Paignton so that's why I always associate going in that direction with being on holiday" says Jools. "Getting on the road cheers me up, even if I'm working hard - I can't get it out of my mind.

"In fact, Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a trip to Plymouth, I know Christmas is getting close once I get down there.

"I love Plymouth and the people," he continues, "great place, and always a fantastic atmosphere. It takes two to tango. What you don't want is for it to feel like 'the audience' and 'us.' You want us all to be one and that's the most fantastic thing about playing, when you relate to the people and see they're with you, physically moving with you and you're all together as one - that's what happens in Plymouth!"