AIN'T misbehavin'... Upton Jazz Festival organiser "Sir Alan" Buckley puts the final touches to a mural of the legendary Fats Waller as Worcestershire's three-day annual music homage started today under blue skies and brilliant sunshine.

Once feared to be under threat because of the foot-and-mouth epidemic, the 16th festival was due to begin this lunchtime on Fish Meadow and at various venues as thousands of jazz fanatics from all over the country converged on the Severnside town.

As well as the meadow and pubs coming alive to the sound of traditional and classic jazz, the MV Conway Castle was also due to feature bands, catering for visitors who want to soak up the "down by the riverside" atmosphere for which the festival is renowned.

This year, Hanley Castle High School hall, with its excellent acoustics and tiered seating, was to play host to "Hot Club" groups that have become a mainstay of the festival.

Picture by John MacBrayne. 25266610