FOLK outfit Magna Carta, led by Hebden man Chris Simpson, are to play at the Grand Theatre in Clitheroe on March 31.

One of the longest-running acoustic acts in the world, Magna Carta have played in 78 countries, including performances at the Royal Albert Hall and Montreux Festival (with Santana and Cat Stevens).

Central to Magna Carta has always been songwriter, poet, singer and acoustic guitarist Chris Simpson, who MOJO writer Fred Dellar once described as ”the English Paul Simon”.

Chris cherishes his links with Craven, enjoying languishing in his narrow boat at East Marton when he has time.

And the band’s latest album, Fields of Eden is his paean of praise for the Yorkshire Dales.

Magna Carta have sold 9,000,000 albums worldwide, and Chris not only sings but plays the guitar and mouthharp.

Shoulder to shoulder with Chris is Ken Nicol of 1970’s folk rock outfit Steeleye Span. He is also featured on vocals and also plays the guitar and mandolin.

Other band members include Will Stock on bass, Wendy Ross on violin and vocals and John Shephard on drums. Andrew Jackson does narration for the band.

The concert starts at 7.45pm on Friday, March 31. Doors open at 7pm.

Opening the concert will be young country music artist from the US, Hannah Rose.

Tickets, which cost £15, are available by ringing 01200 421599 or visiting thegrandvenue.co.uk/event/magna-carta-support