THIS has not been a good year for local jazz enthusiasts, as several prominent musicians have passed away.

The latest, Ronnie Bold, will be mourned by his many admirers, who appreciated the enthusiasm and professionalism he displayed over a considerable number of years as leader of the splendid Ron Heyes Big Band.

Ron, who was 70, was born in Clifton and worked as a draughtsman but ill-health forced him into premature retirement at 59.

However, music was his lifelong love. He was from a musical family: his father led dance bands and Ronnie went on to front his own orchestras, culminating in the 16-piece which currently appears every Thursday night at Brackley Conservative Club in Hazelhurst Road, Worsley. Ronnie suffered a major stroke and, sadly, never fully recovered.

The orchestra, who played a moving musical tribute to their former leader at his funeral service at St Anne's C of E Church in Clifton on Monday, will continue to appear at Brackley Conservative Club.

l In my previous column, I suggested a couple of CDs which would make ideal Christmas presents for relatives or friends with an interest in jazz. Pressure of space prevented the inclusion of the following, but you still have time to get any or all of them: The Phil Woods Quintet: American Songbook - Volumes One and Two: The first CD was recorded in 2006 and the sequel earlier this year. Released on Kind of Blue (catalogue numbers KOB 10005 and KOB 10022B respectively), both recordings include a number of all-time favourite tunes, given typically wonderful interpretation by sax genius Woods and his sidemen.

June's Got Rhythm: The marvellous June Christy made this album in 1958 and it has been remastered and re-issued by Capitol Jazz. An absolute joy. A 78 of June Christy's rendition of "Willow Weep For Me" and "How High The Moon", with the great Stan Kenton Orchestra, was one of the first records I bought following my demob from National Service in 1954.