SIR Tom Jones is to play the green, green grass of York Racecourse after racing on Friday, July 24, as part of the Music Showcase Weekend before making his Scarborough debut on Wednesday, July 29, at the seaside resort's Open Air Theatre.

The popular judge on current BBC1 series The Voice has chalked up more than 30 hits since It's Not Unusual made the top spot in 1965, charting with the likes of Delilah, She's A Lady, What's New Pussycat, The Green, Green Grass Of Home, Kiss and Sex Bomb. Now 74, he has bonded with a new generation of pop fans as the senior judge on BBC1's talent show The Voice.

“I’ve always loved performing live and can’t wait to be part of what I understand is the very special atmosphere of a music showcase night at York Races," Sir Tom says.

James Brennan, head of marketing and sponsorship at the racecourse, says: “It is great news that Sir Tom, a proper legend, will be performing for us; it should be something special. The EBF Lyric Fillies Stakes will be the centrepiece of a six-race card and the weekend's racing action also will include the Sky Bet York Stakes, a Group Two contest on the Saturday that draws a field from the top stables. The support of Sky Bet has seen this Music Showcase Weekend blossom; with great music acts and star horses, I can’t wait for more of the same this July.”

The Saturday music act on the Music Showcase Weekend will be announced on the course’s website at yorkracecourse.co.uk

Tickets cover both the racing and concert. To book, visit the website or phone 01904-620911. Accompanied under-18s are admitted free of charge and there is free car parking and no booking fees.

* Scarborough Open Air Theatre Box Office: 01723-818111or scarboroughopenairtheatre.com