THE rain clouds cleared, the sun shone … and thousands of revellers converged on a Worcestershire town for its annual homage to jazz.

It was music, music everywhere. From the legendary New Orleans-style street parade to the sound-soaked marquees on Fish Meadow, the normally sleepy town of Upton-upon-Severn resounded for three glorious days and nights to the hottest bands this side of Rampart Street.

And with more than 50 outfits to choose from, visitors were completely spoiled for choice.

There was every type of jazz on offer, from classic and Dixieland to ‘hot club’ combos, boogie and swing.

Festival organiser ‘Sir’ Alan Buckley said: “This was the 26th Upton festival and also my 41st. We had a very good parade and the rain held off. Once again, we’ve stayed true to the festival’s roots while still expanding the opportunities for younger players. This all bodes very well for my next festival at Bromyard in August. The jazzers seem to be really out in force this summer.”

Steve Boffy, Best of Young Jazz project manager was also delighted.

He said: “This festival has been absolutely fantastic. My venue on Fish Meadow has been continuously busy … the sheer energy has been incredible.

“These youngsters not only play well but also understand the importance of classic jazz and acknowledging what has gone before.

“They’re learning their trade and learning it well.

“This is our third year and we’ve had nearly 400 young people playing in various bands. There have also been a number of workshops and sessions that have attracted much interest.”

Across town and on the meadow next to the river Severn, traders and stallholders enjoyed a steady trade. One said: “I’ve done really well today – you wouldn’t think that times are tight.”

Chairman of Upton Jazz Association Peter Surman agreed.

He said: “This festival gets better every year.

“This has been a fantastic few days and I would like to pay tribute to the 180 stewards and volunteers who work so tirelessly.

“We go from strength to strength, constantly building towards the future.”

A unanimous verdict then – this was yet another wonderful summer session down by the riverside lapping up the sunshine and listening to the best sounds around.

• Click here for our picture gallery from the event.