Along with Mark Knopfler, John Illsley founded the rock band, Dire Straits.

In less than two decades together they became one of the highest selling British bands of all time, with Sultans of Swing and Brothers in Arms riding high in the charts, sell more than 120 million albums, and helping them go down in history.

In An Evening and Q&A of Music and Memories, John tells - and plays - the life and times of Dire Straits.

The evening will feature classics from the Dire Straits catalogue and a question and answer session led by Paul Cummins, formerly of Dire Straits management.

John will reveal the story and development of the band from its beginnings in a council flat in south London, to playing all over the world to millions of fans, making albums in London, New York, and working with some of the world’s most influential and creative musicians.

“Having Mark Knopfler as songwriter, singer and guitar player in the band gave Dire Straits its unique character,” he said.

“It was a pleasure to be able to contribute to the distinctive sound of the band, and enjoy the friendship and musical journey that Mark and I shared.”

John will be playing hits from Money for Nothing to Brothers in Arms and Romeo and Juliet. The show is at the Astor Theatre, Deal on Saturday, March 23. Book at theastor.org