WHAT appears to be the start of summer has finally arrived and it began, for me at least, with the International Jazz and Blues Festival on the Barbican, pictured.

I had the pleasure of playing with the University of Plymouth Big Band (UPBB) on the Saturday for about an hour to a crowd of music fans. It was such a fun day and the band performed particularly well (even if I do say so myself!) and provided a fine example of how students contribute to the culture of our shared community.

As we move towards the end of this academic year it's always nice to celebrate the achievement of students, evidenced by our recent flurry of awards dinners in the city, including the award for community involvement which went to UPBB.

It was therefore my pleasure to work with a band which has continually worked with the city, from Christmas events in the Pannier Market and on Mutley Plain to volunteering events in the centre to events such as this wonderful festival. I'm sure they will continue to work hard in the coming years.