THE search is on for bands to play at a new performance space at the Upton Jazz Festival.

Organisers of the event are setting up the free fringe stage at the heart of the festival.

And they want bands from across the country to come and entertain the crowds.

Several acts have already signed up to play in the riverside space, but some slots are still available.

The family-friendly festival, now in its 32nd year, attracts thousands of music-lovers from across the world to its blend of trad, Dixieland, New Orleans, hot club, European and gipsy jazz, along with jive, swing and boogie woogie.

Dozens of internationally-renowned bands will play 50 gigs over the four days in huge marquees on the Festival Village, as well as in the town’s Memorial Hall and parish church.

This year’s line-up includes British Jazz Award-winning Jive Aces - who have recently played at Buckingham Palace - the Temperance Seven, Swing Commanders, Jonathan Vinten Trio, Washboard Resonators and Louis Louis Louis, among many others.

Rising stars of the jazz world are celebrated with the award-winning Best of Young Jazz programme, dance classes run all weekend, there’s a gospel-style church service, a lively Mardi Gras street parade, plus riverboat shuffles on a boat on the river.

There’s also an exhibition at the town’s Tudor House Museum, charting the past three decades of the festival.

The free fringe performance space is a new addition to the festival, and organisers say it’s a welcome extra.

“Our dedicated jazz venues will be jam-packed, as always, with brilliant bands from across the world,” said the festival’s musical director Rachel Hayward.

“But we wanted to bring the music into town, too, so everyone can enjoy it when they’re soaking up the sunshine.

“We’ve already been contacted by several bands, offering to play sets during the day and evening, but we’d love more to come forward.

“We’re sure it’ll add to what is already a fantastic atmosphere.”

The festival takes place from Thursday to Sunday, June 22 to 25.