Marketing Cheltenham and Cotswold Guides have announced an official Brian Jones walking tour will begin on what would have been his 77th birthday, to commemorate 50 years since the iconic musician’s death.

Founding member of the Rolling Stones and a much-loved musician, Brian Jones lived in Eldorado Road Cheltenham in 1942, and attended Dean Close School and Cheltenham Grammar School for Boys.

In his early years in Cheltenham he was heavily involved in the town's underground rhythm and blues music scene, before moving to London in the 1960’s to pursue his musical career where he formed one of the world’s most famous rock bands.

Jones played a range of instruments, contributed to several hit records and acted as the band’s manager in the early years.

Bill Wyman, bass guitarist in The Rolling Stones said of Jones: “He formed the band. He chose the members. He named the band. He chose the music we played. He got us gigs. He was very influential.”

However, after a turbulent time involving legal problems, estrangement from bandmates and substance abuse, he was no longer able to participate in the band.

Jones tragically died in a swimming pool in his own house in 1969 at the young age of 27 and his final resting place is in a cemetery in Cheltenham.

The walking tour begins at The Wilson Art Gallery, which is home to a bust of Jones, and then goes through the town highlighting points of interest relating to his life.

Kelly Ballard, manager at Marketing Cheltenham said: “This new walking tour will bring Brian Jones’ story to life and will allow visitors to experience the environment that influenced and inspired him in his early musical career.

“Brian Jones was such a unique musician and his legacy in the town lives on.”

The Brian Jones Anniversary Walking Tour begins on Thursday 28th February and will take place on various dates up until 24th August.