IT’S that time of the year again when the sound of jazz music can be heard across the streets of Bicester.

Bicester Jazz weekend includes a string of live performances by bands and singers in Bicester Village, the town centre and Garth Park, off Launton Road.

Among the acts will be Blusey Susie, Boulevard Swing, trumpeter Bryan Corbett and Esther Miller.

Newcomers this year include Bicester student Sam Plummer, a self-taught jazz keyboard player who will be performing in Garth Park and Bicester Village.

The event is organised by Bicester Village and Bicester Town Council.

Miranda Markham, of Bicester Village, said: “The jazz has been so popular that we now have a regular Wednesday night performance right through the summer.

“Alongside some very talented jazz musicians, there will be face-painting for children at Bicester Village, not forgetting the splendid evening jazz picnic concert in Garth Park with the ever-popular Blakes Heaven Big Band. Bicester Beer Festival also takes place in Garth Park at the same time, making it a full evening of music and fun for everyone.”

The beer festival, organised by Bicester Round Table, runs from 3pm to 10pm today and from 2pm to 5pm tomorrow. Bicester Ladies Circle will be selling Pimm’s and wine to raise cash for local charities.

For more information, view bicestervillage.com or call the Bicester Visitor Centre on 01869 366266.