WITHOUT wishing to sound gushing or patronising, the enthusiasts who run Southport Melodic Jazz Club deserve great credit, and our appreciation.

From humble beginnings 15 years ago, the organisation is now one of the most vibrant and influential in the UK, responsible for attracting internationally famous jazz musicians and singers to the seaside resort, and forming a mutually beneficial liaison with the Royal Clifton Hotel, where its events are staged.

The club stages monthly concerts throughout the year but its Jazz On A Winter's Weekend is the highlight, featuring some of the finest musicians and singers on the Planet.

The third annual event will be held between Friday and Sunday, February 2 and 4, which may seem some time away but, in fact, isn't! Geoff Matthews, chairman of the SMJ, says bookings are pouring in - hardly surprising when you look at the talent on offer.

Listed among the impressive line-up are the Stan Tracey Quartet, whose concert will include a performance of the Under Milk Wood Suite; Elaine Delmar with Brian Dee, Jim Mullen, Simon Thorpe and Matt Home; Bobby Wellins with Mark Edwards, Andrew Clyndert and Spike Wells; The Andy Panayi Septet; The Simon Spillet Quartet; The Lucas Dodd Quartet; Pete Oxley's Curious Paradise; vocalists Liz Fletcher and Pete Churchill; piano duet with John Donaldson and Mark Edwards; the SMJ Swingshift Big Band with special guests Steve Waterman and Barnaby Dickinson.

The finale will be an event to savour, with playwright and jazz enthusiast Alan Plater narrating links to his Seven Ages Of Jazz suite, with lyrics sung by Liz Fletcher and music played by the superb Alan Barnes Octet.

Jazz On A Winter's Weekend is at The Royal Clifton, on the Promenade, Southport. Visitors can choose a weekend ticket (£120), day tickets (£35-£48) or individual concerts (£8-£18) from Southport Melodic Jazz on 01704 541790. The 110-room Royal Clifton is offering a residential B&B package for those wishing to stay at the hotel for the jazz festival. Call 01704 533771. But hurry!