Collins to mark his 50th with Fringe shows

SINGER songwriter Edwyn Collins is to celebrate his 50th birthday with three performances at this year's Festival Fringe.

The former Orange Juice frontman will return to his home town to play at the Assembly Rooms from 20-22 August. He will be joined on stage by different special guests at each of the celebration performances.

After hits throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he suffered two brain haemorrhages in 2005, but was determined to recover and return to performing.

Having built his own recording studio and produced his own third solo album, he has worked extensively as a record producer with other artists, including The Proclaimers, A House, Robert Forster, The Cribs and Little Barrie.

Last week he picked up the Inspiration prize at the Ivor Novello Awards and told the audience: "It's great to be back."

The gigs begin at 11.50pm, and tickets cost £20 via 0131-623 3030 or www.assemblyfestival.com