THE original local rude boy of ska and reggae, Lewis Hawkins, has organised an introduction day to the music.

This Saturday will see Bournemouth Pier Theatre jumping with bands and DJ’s for a 2 Tone Taster.

The first wave of Jamaican ska reached these shores in the 1960’s, while the second wave of British two-tone ska and punk rose to prominence in the late-1970s.

The music promoter and musician has long championed ska and reggae with his band The Sound Of The Suburbs and over the years bringing legendary artists to the area such as Desmond Dekker, The Beat and Toots And The Maytals.

“It’s a dream come true and an introduction into ska and reggae for those that don’t normally listen to the music.

“It is a way of life that you don’t need to ride a scooter or wear Doc Marten’s to be a part of,” says Lewis.

The 2 Tone Taster will see the first 10 rows of chairs in the Pier Theatre removed for dancing, while DJ’s will be playing in Key West Restaurant throughout the whole day.

The one-day festival will be headlined by Croydon based The Dualers a fantastic nine-piece band who have been supporting Madness on tour.

As part of the seven-band support is the first ever gig of The Skanads an all-ska spin-off band from the legendary Gonads, formed by vocalist and journalist Garry Bushell.

It features guest appearances from Jennie Bellestar and skinhead reggae legend Dave Barker of Dave and Ansel Collins fame.

To complete this quality line-up are local skanksters Rat Race, from further afield Offbeat Offensive, Mighty Shrimp, The Raptures and last but not least Dirty Revolution all the way from Cardiff.

Bands and DJs will be performing from noon - 11pm. Tickets are £25 available at www.BHlive.co.uk 0844 576 3000.