Grace Jones to launch Somerset House season

Grace Jones, Lily Allen and The Ting Tings will join this summer's programme of live concerts at Somerset House.

The popular open-air venue announced the first acts for its line-up today.

Jones, who won rave reviews for her appearance at last year's Meltdown festival, will open proceedings on 9 July.

Australian drum'n'bass act Pendulum and indie band Athlete will appear later in the season, which runs until 18 July. Tickets go on sale on Thursday. More acts will be announced this month.

Amy Winehouse and Robert Plant are among those to have played in the courtyard in recent years.