DAVE Swarbrick is a key figure of the British folk movement.

He began his career playing in ceilidh bands in Birmingham and worked with a number of folk groups throughout the 1960s before joining Fairport Convention in 1969.

He has released 11 solo albums, 12 with Fairport Convention and dozens more from collaborations and side projects.

Regarded by many as Britain's finest folk fiddler, Dave plays the violin, viola, mandolin and guitar, and also sings.

This Friday he will give his first solo performance for a decade at The Hawth in Crawley, with tunes and stories from his life in music.

Tickets at £10.50, concessions £8.50, on 01293 553636.