PEOPLE who read this column on a regular basis will know how much I respect and admire Eric Delaney, who, at 83, is still playing drums with the energy, power and enthusiasm of someone in their teens.

That opinion will be endorsed by those who saw him in concert with the Ray McVey Orchestra, at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. His contribution to the evening brought sustained applause, recognition not merely for a man who continues to defy the years, but appreciation of his phenomenal ability.

Eric will return to Horwich RMI Social Club, Chorley New Road, Bolton, on Friday, October 19, when he will feature with the marvellous Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Ian Darrington. This will be a repeat of the fabulous Christmas concert, staged by Wigan Jazz Club. Over the years, Eric has appeared at events organised by Mr Darrington and his colleagues and has many friends and admirers in the North-west, inside and outside the music industry.

One such is Horwich-based Ken Chaisty, whose tireless organising has led to him staging numerous concerts during recent years, featuring local and national bands and musicians, including Eric.

Charities have been the beneficiaries of Ken's efforts and the concert on October 19 will have a special significance, as it will mark his 65th birthday and retirement from his day job of painter and decorator.

Demand for tickets will exceed supply as the Swing Suite at Horwich RMI can only comfortably accommodate 300 people. Priced at £9.50 and £8.50 (concessions), they can be obtained from the club or Mr Chaisty on 01204 468911.

The local jazz scene lost another of its most influential contributors with the passing of Farnworth-based trombonist Jimmy Smith. Jimmy, aged 69, had a long career in music, mainly in traditional and mainstream jazz. Until ill-health curtailed his involvement, he led the excellent Northern Jazz All Stars but, as well as his playing, he will be remembered as co-writer with pianist/singer Howard Broadbent of the famous song The Blackpool Belle, based on the train excursions to the seaside resort from local stations in the 1950s. A man proud of his Lancashire roots, Jimmy was a close friend of internationally famous jazz trombonist Roy Williams, with whom he went to school in Farnworth.

Former drummer and jazz enthusiast Harold Shaw, of Clifton Court, Farnworth, called The Bolton News to ask if I would pop round to see him and his collection of DVDs, CDs and tapes, if I had half an hour or so to spare. I did and came away with a box set of jazz CDs as a gift. Harold is an interesting man and we spent a brief but enjoyable time talking about the good old days when "live" music ruled. Like me, Harold fears for the future of young musicians, and wonders where the work for them will come, with so many artists and shows these days using taped backing. I believe that inevitably the public will realise they are being "conned" and insist on proper musicians playing proper music.

What's on and where

ART LESTER BIG BAND: The Pennine Suite, Horwich RMI Social and Recreation Club, Chorley New Road, Bolton. Every Tuesday. 8.30pm to 11pm. Free. Ballroom dancing in the main hall every second Tuesday in the month. £3 on the door.

KEN WARD BIG BAND: Leigh Liberal Club. Every Monday. 8pm to 11pm. Free.

JERIATRIC JAZZ: The Jolly Carter, Church Street, Little Lever, Wednesday, July 25. 8.30pm to 11.30pm. Free.

EAGLEY JAZZ CLUB: Dunscar Conservative Club, Hardman's Lane, Bromley Cross, Bolton. Special attraction: Roger Mark's Armada Jazz Band. Monday, July 16. From 8.30pm. Members £6. Guests £7.

RON HAYES BIG BAND: Brackley Conservative Club, Hazelhurst Road, Worsley. Every Thursday. 8.30pm to 11.00pm. £2 at the door.