A STOMPING summer of jazz and blues is being lined up for Upton.

For the first time ever, the town will have a blues festival to rival its annual jazz festival.

The dates for the new festival have been fixed as July 19 and 20, after the success of fundraising events confirmed there would be enough income for it to go ahead.

A "blues cruise" on the Severn on October 5 sold all 150 tickets very quickly and a similar event is being organised for April, alongside a guest appearance by a band yet to be confirmed at the Swan Hotel in February.

The festival line-up has not yet been finalised and an appeal for local musicians to come forward to showcase their talents has been launched by its organisers.

"We would be very interested in any local blues, R&B and soul bands who want to play at the festival," said blues festival committee secretary Richard Tippin.

"They are more than welcome to send demo tapes or get in touch with us as soon as possible."

Any interested outfits should contact Stuart McEwan at The Anchor Inn, High Steet, Upton, or on 01684 591412.

Meanwhile, the play-list for the annual jazz festival has been finalised and includes top talent from the worlds of bebop, salsa, and many others.

Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen, the Bill Bailey Band and the Budapest Ragtime Band will be rubbing shoulders with local outfits such as the Chase Big Band and the Worcester Militia.

The jazz festival will take place on June 28, 29 and 30. More information and advance tickets, priced £40 for three days, are available on 01684 593254.