IT?S time to prepare the picnic hampers for the two major evening outdoor events promoted by Plymouth Jazz Club this summer.

First off on Saturday, July 26 from 5.30pm is the ?Summer Jazz Picnic? on the lawns of one of the National Trust?s prime properties, Saltram House, set in a landscaped park, just three miles from Plymouth city centre.

Top of the bill is Phil Mason?s New Orleans All Stars with vocalist Christine Tyrrell. Also Roy Pellett?s Dixie Five plus John Wurr will provide an evening of ?Hot Jazz?, so put on your dancing shoes!

On Friday, August 15, Morwellham Quay near Tavistock hosts the club?s second picnic ?Down by the Riverside? on the quays by the River Tamar from 6.00pm.

Enjoy an evening strolling and picnicking to four different styles of Jazz. Featured this year are the Mike Cox Superior Jazz Band, Harry S Fulcher Sextet, Tony Harris Quartet with Karen Taylor, and Mike Denham at the piano. Also incidental entertainment with a jazzy close harmony group called ?Afterglow?.

Bring your own picnics and seating, but refreshments and a bar will be available at both venues. Only Guide Dogs permitted. Barbecues and flares are not allowed.

All are welcome, and on a warm summer evening it is sheer enjoyment!

If you enjoy outdoor events the club invites you to join them for another event. On Sunday, August 3 they are presenting an evening of jazz with the Roy Pellett Hot Four with Mike Ayear on the ?River Boat Shuffle? up the River Tamar.

Tickets are visitors £10, members £9, but there are savings of £2 per ticket to be made by purchasing your tickets in advance. The deadlines are for Saltram by July 12, and Morwellham Quay by August 4. Contact The National Trust on 01752-333500, and Morwellham Quay on 01822-832766 to purchase tickets by debit/credit card.

l The club ? which was founded in 1984 ? welcomes non-members, but does make an admission charge. Membership is available.

Plymouth Jazz Club meets on the first Sunday (non-traditional) and third Sunday (traditional) every month in The Function Suite, at The Mermaid, Frogmore Avenue, Eggbuckland, Plymouth.