THE Big Band Buffet is set to again offer residents the chance to enjoy an afternoon of free, live music.

The event, hosted by Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) for the over 55s, will take place at Test Valley School, in Stockbridge on Saturday, 27 January from 11am to 3pm.

The community event offers residents the chance to meet friends, speak with representatives from voluntary and community groups, and enjoy live big band classics and jazz standards from the Clive Fortune Big Band.

Hampshire Constabulary and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service will present information about topics such as crime prevention, distraction burglaries, and staying safe in your home. There will also be a range of other organisations on hand to speak to residents about any issues or concerns they may have.

For the first time at this event, guests will also be able to hear about Timebanking, which allows people to help others in their community by offering an hour of their time and skills to support others – from mowing a lawn to walking the dog - and then receive the community support they need in return.

TVBC community and leisure portfolio holder, Councillor Tony Ward, said: β€œThe Big Band Buffet is always a popular and over-subscribed event so I would encourage anyone interested in attending to book their place early. I would like to thank the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire for supporting the event this year.”

For tickets, call 01264 368841 or email Community&Leisure@testvalley.gov.uk. Limited transport is available and must be requested when booking.