DARWEN Jazz and Blues Festival continues today with a live performance from popular 80s band Shakatak.

The event got under way last night at Number 39 Hopstar Brewery Tap in Bridge Street, when Gary Boyle performed live.

Shakatak are the event headliners and will perform from 7.30pm at the Knott Street theatre, with tickets available for £18 or £20 on the door.

Also tonight, Gary Hall will perform at The Belgrave in Belgrave Road, from 9pm, and Junkhousedog Blues Band are at The Crown in Redearth Road from 9pm.

The event continues tomorrow and Sunday at venues throughout the town.

Festival organiser Gary Ward said: "This year we have put together a varied programme of jazz and blues to spice up what could be a cold mid-November weekend.

"The showcase act this year is 80s jazz/funk/pop outfit Shakatak.

"We are also delighted to have the magnificent big band leader Al Wood appearing with the Steve Childs Band on the Saturday afternoon.

"One of the UK's finest jazz pianists Jamil Sheriff will also make an appearance at Number 39 Hopstar Brewery Tap on the Sunday with his trio.

"One of the good things about Darwen Jazz and Blues Weekend is that all of the venues are within a five-minute walk from each other and if you get a hotel in the town then a taxi ride will cost you just £2 with several taxi companies.

"And apart from the Shakatak concert, all performances are free to attend."