A prominent weekend of jazz is set to be expanded this year.

Growing from the ever popular Lowestoft Jazz Weekend, the new Lowestoft Jazz Festival will mark its new identity with the largest event its ever hosted this week.

Running from Thursday, September 14 through to Sunday, September 17, it will include seven performances by internationally renowned jazz artists as well as an exhibition on the history of the genre.

A spokesman for the Seagull Theatre in Pakefield said: "The Seagull has expanded and developed the jazz festival in memory of its founder and former director, Bob Blizzard, who set up the festival in 2018 and sadly passed away last year.

"Bob was a massive advocate for Lowestoft, as well as being Waveney MP for many years and a jazz fan.

Lowestoft Journal: The expanded Lowestoft Jazz Festival returns. Picture: Seagull TheatreThe expanded Lowestoft Jazz Festival returns. Picture: Seagull Theatre (Image: Seagull Theatre)

"He first started the jazz weekend, and when it became apparent, he was terminally ill, Bob asked the Seagull to continue his work."

With external funding from the Scop Arts Trust, the theatre has been able to involve more venues this year.

Thanks to funding support the festival now includes more performances which are 'Pay what you think'.

The festival kicks off on Thursday with the fairground jazz folk troubadours, 'The Cloggz' performing at the Hotel Hatfield.

On Friday, September 15 the Seagull hosts the wonderful Antonio Forcione Trio.

There are three opportunities to enjoy some quality jazz, with two performances which are 'pay what you feel' on Saturday, September 16.

At 2.30pm the Karen Sharp Trio will perform at East Point Pavilion.

JAZZFACE will entertain at 5pm at the Grit Arts Centre, before the amazing Elaine Delmar hits the stage at the Seagull Theatre at 8pm.

On Sunday, September 17 the festival draws to a close as the Grit Arts Centre plays host to Emma Rawicz at 2.30pm.

Then on Sunday evening at 7.30pm the Seagull Theatre closes the festival with a performance from the Pete Long Big Band, who will be recreating the famous 1938 Carnegie Hall concert by Benny Goodman.

Details of all the shows as well as links to book tickets can be found online.