THIS weekend sees the long awaited 2001 Nantwich Jazz and Blues Festival.

The festival traditionally takes place over the Easter weekend and things kick off tomorrow, Friday, April 13.

Nantwich's many pubs will be packed out with the region's, and in some cases the country's, top musicians as numerous free gigs take place.

Nantwich Civic Hall and the Crown Hotel will also be hosting paid for concerts.

These include the Spencer Davies Group playing foot-tapping blues brothers-style music on Sunday night at Nantwich Civic Hall.

The Bill Basey Big Band is also playing on Sunday afternoon and The Norman Beaker Band on Sunday evening at The Crown.

On Saturday, Chris Farlowe and The Norman Beaker Band bring their blues and jazz to the Civic Hall.

There are plenty more paid-for gigs going on and for details you can contact organiser Phil Martin at The Crown on 625283.

The highlight for many people, though, is to be the opening parade on Saturday which will feature the children's umbrella parade involving more than 100 local schoolchildren.

The festival has always proved to be a winner and whether you are paying on the night, or just walking around the town's pubs to sample the free music and atmosphere, it will guarantee a good night, day, afternoon or weekend out.

Right - last year's opening parade gets people in the swing for the Jazz and Blues festival.