THE fifth Darwen Jazz and Blues Festival will go ahead despite concerns it would be axed because the organisers were too busy.

The popular event is run by Darwen Music Projects (DMP) and has had financial help from the town council.

But its future was in doubt this year after Gary Ward from DMP said he was too busy to run the event.

However, Blackburn with Darwen Council bosses have confirmed a headline event featuring Shakatak — who had two top 10 hits in the 1980s — will go ahead on November 14 at Darwen Library Theatre.

Mr Ward said he would put together the usual packed programme of acts at pubs and clubs.

Mr Ward, former frontman of popular local band Gone Beggin’, combines his work with DMP with performing as Mr Cottonhouse.

He said: “I was not going to do it this year because I had such a lot on. But with Steve Birch from the Library Theatre getting Shakatak, which is a really good act, it makes sense to put together a full event.”

Borough leisure chief Coun Damian Talbot said: “I am pleased it is taking place. There are a lot of people who really like this and the music is something different to what is usually on offer at our events.

“It is good that in spite of the financial cuts we are able to keep this festival going.”