THE organisers of the fifth Southport International Jazz Festival said that this year's festival was a huge success. The festival was not as big as it has been for a few years, with less bands and venues. However it still attracted big names to the event, such as Ruby Turner, Kyle Eastwood, Gwyneth Herbert and Georgie Fame, and many more.

The event had 70 concerts over a four day period, from the 23 June to 26 June 2005, in venues ranging from restaurants and bars to theatres, shopping arcades and bandstand. One of the bands who played at the event yet again, was one of our radio station's most requested jazz bands, DFQ. Most of the visitors to the town put them as one of the highlights of the event, together with the Swing Commanders, also back again. They too gave a stunning performance, as in previous years.

Sefton Tourist Board said:- "All the venues are within easy walking distance of each other and we are particularly proud of this, as this encourages visitors into countless pubs, restaurants and bars... The event is still one of the best of its type in the North West and what is even better is the fact that many shows were free." Other returners were Jazz Tech. After another amazing show of technical and dramatic dancing, at Flaver, the group said:- "The sounds of jazz draw in the crowds each year and we love the feeling you get from that. The town is one of our favorite venues and we always look forward to visiting."