Popular vocal harmony group The Overtones have announced that Saundersfoot’s very own stylish songster Jay James has joined the band.

The Overtones have announced the dates of their festive tour in December with gigs in the Midlands on the cards.

The multi-platinum selling band have announced that Welsh singer, songwriter Jay has joined Mike Crawshaw, Darren Everest and Mark Franks, following Lockie Chapman’s departure earlier this year.

Jay a former Royal Navy fitness instructor who shot to fame on The X Factor in 2014, has continued to perform since as a solo performer whilst also hosting his own radio show. He said he was ‘blown away’ by joining the band.

“I’ve known the boys and been a fan for many years now and it has always been clear what they were all about - making great, timeless music, putting on incredible shows and enjoying life!” he said.

“Over the years that has never changed. I’ve been blessed to support them on a number of occasions, and I’ve witnessed the joy they bring and felt the warmth of some of the best fans I’ve ever met.”

“To now join the group is absolute magic and I cannot wait to stand beside Darren, Mike and Mark in creating some more brilliant nights and continuing to make people smile, sing and dance for many moons to come!” he added.

Band member Darren said that they met Jay nine years ago when they all performed on the charity record (Songs To Save A Life) for The Samaritans, and their paths have continuously crossed over the years.

"When we thought about a new member joining the band he was the first, and only, name that came to mind. Everything about Jay says ’Overtone’.

“He has a classic style and is inspired by the same great artists as we all are. Jay has fitted in seamlessly and we can’t wait to push on and get to work,” added Darren

The first song to be recorded with this new line up will be Earth Wind and Fire’s classic track ‘September’.

Said Mark: "We’ve been busy over the last few months and it’s been so exciting being back in the studio with Jay. The new music is very much ’classic Overtones’ but with a twist.

“This song is a taster of what’s to come, Jay’s voice adds a new dimension as you can hear and, as soon as we recorded it, we knew that it was the perfect fit for us four boys - feel good and uplifting... an absolute gem of a song."

The group will be heading out on the road for a festive tour full of ’classic songs and good time greats’ this December for their ‘Christmas Party’ shows which will feature a date at Cardiff’s St David’s Hall on Monday, December 16.

Tickets go on sale on Friday, July 5 at 10 am.