* THEY were responsible for some of the greatest hits in pop history – and, remarkably, while most of their contemporaries have retired, fallen or faded away, they are still at it. And this weekend they return to Oxford.

The Hollies, above, are among the most enduring bands of the 1960s. Only the Rolling Stones can better them in creativity and endurance.

These days fronted by guitarist and Henley resident Tony Hicks, the band are still bashing out such hits as Bus Stop, Carrie Anne, The Air That I Breathe and He Ain't Heavy He's My Brother.

On Sunday they play the New Theatre to promote their new live record produced in Henley by Tony’s son Paul, a triple Grammy award-winning sound engineer. The double album, Hollies Live Hits – We Got the Tunes!, was actually mixed in a summer house in Tony’s garden. Fans will be able to pick up a copy at the show. Tickets are £22-£27 from atgtickets.com

* The death last year of jazzman Abram Wilson left fans stunned. The New Orleans-raised composer and trumpeter was one of the finest talents of our time, and had been the star of the Oxford Jazz Festival, playing the Randloph Hotel this time last year.

Two months later Abram died, aged 38, having being diagnosed with cancer three days earlier. Following his death a foundation was set up in his name, and has already raised £20,000.

To celebrate the memory of Abram, and boost funds, the trumpeter’s rhythm section return to Oxford, for their first gig together this year. It takes place tomorrow at The Big Bang, in the Oxford Castle Quarter.

The owner of the Big Bang, Max Mason, helped organise the jazz festival. He said: “Abram’s appearance at the festival was outstanding. He was a tremendous artist with heart and soul to inspire the next generation. With this performance we celebrate a life, a talent and the continuation of his work.”

Talking to The Guide shortly before his death, Abram said: “Jazz can be a powerful thing which promotes so many positive aspects and happiness.” This memorial concert seems the perfect way to celebrate that positivity and his memory.

Tickets are £10. Admission includes a £5 raffle ticket for a chance to win a photograph of Abram. Doors open at 7pm.