THE sun shone, the beer flowed and the music played on in Upton last weekend as the 16th International Jazz Festival rolled into town.

Thousands of jazz aficionados from across the world turned out on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to enjoy a range of styles ranging from trad to the more contemporary.

"Everything went very well," said festival organiser 'Sir' Alan Buckley.

"We had no problems at all. The layout was fantastic and we're up on figures from last year, it was wonderful. Of course, the weather was a bonus, we've waited four years for this."

The festival received added publicity with live broadcasts on BBC Radio Hereford & Worcester, BBC TV and Carlton Television.

Despite the high spirits, alcohol consumption and heat, police reported few problems.

"The festival was patrolled by beat managers," said West Mercia spokeswoman Fiona Harrison.

"There were three minor altercations which were dispersed peacefully and no one was arrested."