THE summer of festivals is upon us and three days of world class jazz are coming to the riverside.

Upton International Jazz Festival, now in its 29th year, takes place from Friday to Sunday, June 27-29 and a Worcester News reader could be there for free.

The line-up includes world-famous Sammy Rimington, boogie king Carl Sinclair, dance maestros the Swing Commanders and party band Brass Volcanoes.

Expect the famous Mardi Gras parades through the streets, a jazz church service and the Best of Young Jazz, which showcases up and coming talent.

The festival’s musical director, Rachel Hayward, said: “It’s a fabulous weekend of music down by the riverside. This year, we’re creating a whole new festival vibe on a huge festival field in town.

“With 60 fabulous gigs from a line-up of world-renowned jazzers, the atmosphere is going to be electric.”

Pubs and clubs will ring out with the sounds of New Orleans, Dixieland, swing, jive, boogie woogie, rhythm and blues and modern jazz and this year, a dedicated dance marquee has been created.

Jazz fans can also expect the Remi Harris Quartet, British Jazz Award-winner Alan Barnes, Annie Hawkins New Orleans Jazz Band, George Huxley's All Stars with Caz Shennington and John Shillito's Select Six.

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of weekend passes, plus a programme, answer this simple question: How many years has the festival been running?

Send your answer and contact details to tgledhill@theoceanmedia.com marked 'Worcester News Jazz Festival Competition' by noon on Wednesday, June 25.

For more information and tickets, go to uptonjazz.co.uk or call 01684 593254.