GAZETTE & HERALD: THRONGS of talented musicians will shortly be signed up for the second Corsham Jazz Festival.

Plans are advancing for the musical extravaganza but chairman of the event Mark Sammut is appealing for donations to make it a great success.

Last week the town council contributed £200 to the jazz weekend and now Mr Sammut, 51, of Purleigh Road, Corsham, hopes others will follow suit.

"To get the budget together is very demanding, so every bit counts. The money will go towards acts. We know we have to raise five or six thousand pounds to put the festival on so we are looking for support from any quarter," he said.

"The more we raise the better and more musicians we can attract, however it is our intention to showcase local talent wherever possible."

The jazz enthusiast said last year's event the first jazz festival in Corsham was a musical success but financially lost money.

"An over adventurous programme saw many of the country's top jazz musicians play to empty halls," said Mr Sammut. "Not only was attendance poor, but I noted that there was little involvement from the local populace or any of the local societies or groups.

"This is an opportunity to promote Corsham, both as a business location, a cultural destination as well as to help local business prosper."

The festival is planned for September 10 and 11 and concerts will run in the town hall with in between events at the Royal Oak, home of Corsham Jazz Club.