Music fans packed pubs in the south of the island for the first weekend of a new annual festival.

The Port Erin Jazz Festival brought together a heady mix of talented local musicians and a great selection of UK Jazz players, all played in front of an enthusiastic and appreciative audience.

UK jazz greats Alan Barnes and David Newton and the Leeds College of Music jazz trio, featuring guitarist Connor Thomas, bassist Fergus Leach and drummer Hayden Morrow, ventured over to the island to join in with the Manx groups, which included Blue Vannin, Cool Hand Fluke, Tree ny Kiare, the Heinrich Manoeuvre and the Dave Holland Swing Band, amongst many others.

The bands all played a series of concerts at the Erin Art Centre, on Friday and Saturday evening, along with afternoon gigs at the Bay Hotel and Falcon’s Nest on Saturday afternoon.

Organiser Jerry Carter, saxophonist with Blue Vannin, said that the music was warmly received by the crowds, who made the festival come to life.

’Everyone played out of their skins, and it was terrific to see the locals play along with our guest musicians,’ said Jerry.

’The guys who came over, including David and Alan, loved the way that the crowds were really appreciative and enthusiastic.’

’It was the audience that made the weekend go with a swing and gave it a real festival atmosphere.

’The pubs were heaving, and there was a real mix of people there, all getting into it and dancing along, with lots of young people too, which was great to see.’

Unfortunately, UK saxophonist and arranger Beccy Rork was unable to make the journey over to perform at the festival.

The organisers are now making plans to make sure the festival returns next year.

Jerry also thanked the sponsor Celton Manx.