The Blockheads to headline Rox music and arts festival

They burst upon the world of popular music with their album New Boots and Panties in 1977 with the late Ian Dury on vocals.

The Blockheads’ other original members – Chas Jankel, Norman Watt-Roy and Mick Gallagher – will bring their distinctive style of music to close the annual crowd-puller on July 24 at the Royal Norfolk Hotel.

A Rox spokesman said: “We are delighted to welcome such a fabulous band of brilliant musicians to entertain the huge crowds at our 21st anniversary free Rox festival.

“It’s another great coup for our community celebration and a confirmation of the importance of our work in bringing quality performance and creative ideas to Bognor and the locality throughout the years.”

Ian Dury and The Blockheads became UK number one in early 1979. Reasons To Be Cheeful, Part 3 reached number three the same year while rock’n’roll anthem Sex and Drugs and Rock & Roll created an unforgettable phrase.

Rox 2011 will boast live music from all corners of the world from 1pm on July 23 and 24 across five stages. Performers from Australia, Russia and Spain will be there as well as Bognor’s Slash and Friends Tribute Band.

There will also be a funfair, art and sculpture displays and community activities plus DJs and dance acts on the pier.