The actor, best known for his role as Private Pike in the BBC comedy series, will be introducing the programme at five of the 12 concerts on the UK tour, including the Harrogate date when the band play at the International Centre on Thursday, October 23.

Each concert will feature one of the main bands of the Service, augmented by the big-band sound of the Squadronaires plus the Salon Orchestra, a quintet of musicians who provide a stringed element to the programme.

The concert marks the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force with a mix of light classics, jazz, big band and music from the shows to appeal to all ages.

Wing Comm Stuart Stirling will be conducting, and musical highlights include the swing classic String of Pearls; Ron Goodwin's theme from the film A Bridge Too Far; the coronation march, Crown Imperial, by Sir William Walton; and Hubert Parry's hymn Jerusalem, one of the traditional elements of the Last Night.

The performance starts at 7.30pm and tickets are available priced £20.50, £17.50, £14.50, and £7.50 (booking fee applies, except for cash transactions) from Harrogate International Centre box office on 0845 130 8840 or online at www.harrogateboxoffice.co.uk