THE main bandstands at Upton Jazz Festival could be moved to the playing fields if foot and mouth prevents Fish Meadow from being used.

The contingency plan, agreed in principle by Upton Town Council as a gesture of goodwill, would provide a much-needed boost to the town's shops by bringing festival-goers into the town centre.

'Jazz City' would be located at the far end of the playing field, near the parish church, with the marquees facing away from the town to minimise noise.

"We should embrace the opportunity to give them the use of this field," said deputy mayor Roger Barker, at Tuesday's council meeting. "Even if it's disruptive, it's a one-off. On the other hand, it may be an opportunity to get people into the town who would not normally go near the shops. We should be whole-heartedly in favour."

Coun Barker said festival organisers had agreed any damage to the field would be made good and that it would be left in the same condition as it was found.

Upton's free car park would remain in public use and access to the ground would be from a layby, said Coun Barker, adding that details would be considered by the open spaces committee.

Festival organiser Alan Buckley welcomed the council's decision, saying he wanted to safeguard the festival by moving it away from agricultural land. Heavy goods vehicles bringing big marquees, toilets and mobile homes normally have to go through a farmyard.

Mr Buckley said it had taken about four weeks to draw up contingency plans, including alternative camping and car parking facilities, with a continuous bus service into town.

"The last thing we want to do is cancel the festival," he said.

"The event attracts 5,000 people a day to Upton, bringing trade, tourism and about 3,000 bed and breakfast bookings to the area."