HUMPHREY Lyttleton and Sir John Dankworth (I still can't call him anything but Johnny Dankworth) have been two of the most respected and influential characters on the British jazz scene.

They are poles apart in their interpretations of the genre: trumpeter "Humph" pretty much mainstream and "trad"; alto saxophonist Sir John one of the most innovative modern jazz players in the world.

They have been bandleaders virtually throughout their long, distinguished careers, and a musician has to possess an extraordinary talent to get into an outfit led by either "Humph" or Dankworth.

So when I tell you that saxophonist Jimmy Hastings works for both those jazz luminaries, you will have some idea that here indeed is a truly exceptional player. He will be parading his considerable talents on a welcome return visit to The Rhythm Station at Rawtenstall next Tuesday evening when he will be featured with the resident Tommy Melville Quartet.

Born in Scotland, Jimmy lost no time in moving to London after establishing a reputation as a "jazzer" of quality at festivals and in major venues north of the border.

He spent a couple of years with the Ken Mackintosh Orchestra, then four years with the BBC Radio Orchestra, and featured in gigs with some of the biggest names in international cabaret, including Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jnr, Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin and Sarah Vaughan.

Although primarily a tenor saxophonist, Jimmy has been a member of the Humphrey Littleton Band on alto, clarinet and flute since 1993.

He is also a member of the Dankworth Big Band on baritone saxophone, bass clarinet and flute, a curriculum vitae of which anyone could be justifiably proud.

Besides his commitments with those two name bands, Jimmy is a regular on the jazz club circuit in the UK, teaches saxophone at the Royal Marines School of Music in Portsmouth and is Professor of Saxophone at the London College of Music.

Now for a date which I hope will create interest among jazz fans, particularly those encouraged to support a promotion at Old Rosin's Inn, at Pickup Bank, Hoddlesden, Darwen. The young couple now in charge have come up with the idea of special "theme night" promotions, including a jazz dinner on Friday, March 21.

One of the customers at Rosin's, who has heard my band Jeriatric Jazz and likes what we play, recommended us to the management and we have agreed to appear at the first of what is hoped will be a pretty regular feature at the pub.

Anyone interested should contact The Rosins on 01254 771264.

Incidentally, Jeriatric Jazz play mostly mainstream and have a vocalist whose honeyed tones would charm the birds from the trees.