City blowing its own trumpet after swinging jazz festival

The festival saw thousands of people arriving in Londonderry to enjoy Northern Ireland's event of the year as awarded by NITB.

Adding to the buzz this year is the city's bid to become the first ever UK City of Culture, meaning there is even more colour and vibrancy in the streets and a wonderful carnival atmosphere in the air.

And plans are already underway to make sure that the Festival celebrates its 10th birthday, next year, in style.

This year's headline Act, former Rolling Stone, Bill Wyman, wowed crowds at the Millennium Forum and received the Festival's International Music Award on Saturday night.

Mayor Paul Fleming, said: "This year's Jazz Festival was, as ever, a resounding success.

"From the fantastic headline act, Bill Wyman, impressing the crowds at the Millennium Forum, to the Jazz Street Buskers entertaining the entire city, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

"I have always been a huge fan of the Jazz Festival, and as Mayor, it made me incredibly proud to see Derry City being highlighted at its absolute best."

Aoife Thomas from Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau added: "The festivities which took place over the Bank Holiday weekend were a great success for all involved and there was a fantastic buzz throughout the city.

"Occupancy reached over 90% across the entire accommodation sector with some providers having to post No Vacancy signs - a clear testament to the event's success!

"Visitors of Nationalities such as French, Spanish, German and Czech were spotted out and about soaking up the atmosphere of the Jazz Festival!

"We hope the Jazz Festival continues to grow in stature year upon year and would like to say a big Well Done to all involved."

Johnny Murray, Festival Co-ordinator, said he was delighted with another successful year, saying: "It was great to see packed streets and smiling faces enjoying all the entertainment on offer throughout the weekend.

"City of Derry Jazz Festival just keeps improving, going from strength to strength every year, with a fantastic reputation internationally which just keeps getting better."

This festival is arranged for you by Derry City Council in partnership with DCAL/NITB's Major Events Fund and Diageo/Guinness.

For further information visit www.cityofderryjazzfestival.com or follow festival updates on the City of Culture2013 Facebook site.