SINGER-SONGWRITER Tim Dalling has been described as the best entertainer ever to come out of Ayrshire.

And he's bringing his new show back to his home county, with a performance at Irvine's Harbour Arts Centre on Sunday, November 3. 

Tim has been working full-time as a musician, actor, creative tour de force and song-writer since graduating from Glasgow School of Art in 1982.

Born in Ayr, the family name and connection with the town continues through the well-known family tobacconist firm of T.H Dalling in Burns Statue Square, which was established in 1902 and built a faithful clientele, selling quality cigars on an international level.

A permanent fixture on the UK panto circuit as his sharp wit and ability to deliver one-liners is so well-honed, it actually was as a performer that Tim made a name for himself, particularly on the European folk festivals circuit where The New Rope Stringband became one of the biggest draws.

When they finally stopped touring back in 2015, three thousand fans snapped up tickets for their final show - a two-and-a-half-hour spectacular at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Tim, who lives in the north east of England, and is looked upon as a local hero by the Geordies, has organized a short - and rare - run of Scottish dates that will bring him to some more intimate venues with his popular one-man show.

And, he was determined to make sure one of them was back on his home patch. 

Fondly remembered by many for his hugely creative input, he has written and recorded as a powerfully observant singer-songwriter (Billy Connolly is a fan) and been ranked by critics along with the likes of Ivor Cutler and Randy Newman.

Firmly established as one of the most cherished entertainers on Tyneside, it was there he recorded the album ‘Blossom’. It became a top ten album selection in The Guardian newspaper.

Reviewing his follow-up album, ‘Eve’s Bonie Squad,’ which included many songs that focused on his time growing up in Ayr, RNR magazine described him as “a genius.”

The Unthanks sought him out to open the show each night on their ‘Mount The Air’ Tour, and he went on to play big festival events such as Underneath The Stars and Celtic Connections.

Tickets are on sale now from the Harbour Arts Centre box office.