JAZZ lovers got into the swing at the 15th annual Pershore Jazz Festival held at the weekend.

The event has grown from small beginnings to become a well respected part of the British jazz scene, and annually now attracts jazz fans from across the UK.

Taking place this year over three days, August 19 to 21, the festival was again held in the grounds of Pershore College, in Avonbank.

The festival featured the usual varied programme and different styles of jazz including traditional and mainstream, big band swing, boogie and Latin.

Among the performers forming this year's programme were Jamie Brownfield, Richard Leach, the NBen Holder Quartet, the Old Hat Jazz Band and The Milvertons.

Peter Farrall, jazz festival secretary, said: "It was a good turn out, higher than last year, and although we seem to say it every year, this year really was our best one yet.

"Worcester Youth Jazz Orchestra were showing people how to play - it was amazing how many people watched people playing until they got it right.

"The Buck Clayton Legacy Band were a real coup to get.

"We always get visitors from across the UK - this year we had visitors who came especially for the festival from Israel."

For more on the festival visit http://pershorejazz.org.uk.