MEMORABLE, entertaining and fun - the eighth Nantwich Jazz and Blues Festival was all three and more.

Record numbers revelled in the five-day event with around 40,000 people turning out to sample the music and electric atmosphere on offer over the Easter bank holiday.

Organiser Phillip Martin hailed it as the best ever with 2004 filled with numerous highlights - and he's already thinking of the future.

"It went very well and was definitely our best ever," he said.

"People for all over the country were there and even further afield.

"Sunday was our best day in terms of attendance and a couple of venues were that packed the bands couldn't even get in, which was a great shame.

"We need to do something about that next year so we are looking into adding a large acoustic venue for people who really just want to listen to the music.

"The Blues Band were incredible on the Saturday and Rick Maile, who provided support, was fabulous.

"He was actually scheduled to do a gig in London and when we approached him about providing support he cancelled it and came here.

"He is actually Rik Mayall's cousin although we didn't plug it because he actually does look like and sounds like him.

"Ruby Turner was also fantastic and did a two-and-a-half hour stint on the Sunday. Geno Washington and the Foundations also went down a treat.

"All the artists were great and we like to thank everyone who was involved.

"We're already looking forward to next year."