SOUTHPORT International Jazz Festival has won the backing of national radio station Jazz FM.

Acts include Clare Teal, Jay Phelps, Orquesta Cache, the Tubby Hayes Legacy Orchestra and King and Skid, playing at venues across the town centre from May 26-29.

Trumpeter Jay Phelps launches the four-day event with a concert at Christchurch, Lord Street.

Singer Teal, who is also a BBC Radio 2 presenter, will perform the following day at The Prince of Wales Hotel.

There is also a fringe programme featuring festival favourites the Des Hopkins Original Guinness Jazz Band, Perfectly Frank, Dan Forshaw and Vernon Fuller.

Sefton’s tourism marketing officer Joanne Rawlinson says: “Jazz fans are very passionate about the music genre and by teaming up with the radio station we can really hit the jazz market making this year’s event one to remember.”

Richard Wheatly, Jazz FM chief executive, adds: "We have admired the festival for several years, both for the quality of the artists they attract and for the atmosphere it generates.

“We welcome festivals that help champion the breadth and quality of music that gives rise to this most wonderful genre.”

FULL programme details at www.southportjazz.com