Jazz blues for fest fans

Next month should be the festival’s 12th offering, but funding issues have seen the event axed. Speaking yesterday, a spokeswoman for Dumfries and Galloway Council said: “Jazz Scotland has informed the council that they are unable to deliver the Lockerbie Jazz Festival in September 2017. “Jazz Scotland providedafull and transparent explanation why the Jazz Festival will not take place, and why they are unable to ‘draw down’ the council grant of £6000 for the festival. “These reasons include a lack of funding to complement the council’s funding, and Jazz Scotland’s current capacity to collate and deliverafestival in line with past programmes.” But the event has not been shelved indefinitely. The spokeswoman added: “The council is proactive regarding major festivals development and has explored how to continue this festival, which has brought wonderful live music to Lockerbie each September for a decade. “Several options have been reviewed but discounted as they are not practical or achievable. “The council will continue its dialogue with the local steering group for the festival and Jazz Scotland to identify how to promote jazz music in Dumfries and Galloway in future years.” The festival is organised by Jazz Scotland and aided by a local steering group - both were this week unavailable for comment. However, the chairwoman of Lockerbie Community Council, Jan Andrews, has branded the situation disappointing. She said: “It will be a big loss for Lockerbie.” In recent years the festival has expanded and held shows and events in neighbouring communities such as Moffat, Annan and Gretna.

Meanwhile, to fill the void not-for-profit Rockerbie group say they are hosting a September Takeover on the 30th of the month at Lockerbie Town Hall.