POLICE will be out in force at the Marlborough Jazz Festival this weekend amid concerns that dehydration could increase the risk of alcohol-related incidents.

Marlborough Neighbourhood Police are hopeful that the three- day event, which kicks off tomorrow, will go off without a hitch but will establish a visible presence to deter any anti-social behaviour.

Sergeant Barry Reed said: “The jazz festival is a good event which is well attended and causes us very few problems.

“The biggest concern for me this year would be dehydration, and from a safety point of view we’ve had a discussion with Pub Watch and licensees in order to prevent people getting too drunk. With dehydration due to the hot weather, it won’t take a lot of alcohol to tip people over the edge.

“As with every year, we’ve been working alongside the jazz committee to make sure our staffing levels are there for public protection and to assist them with executing their plans for public safety around the event.

“We want the weekend to go well so we will be out as a visual deterrent.”

The festival will be opened tomorrow by veteran jazz singer and keyboard player Georgie Fame.

With acts including MOBO award-winning pianist Zöe Rahman on the bill, organisers are expecting this year’s festival to be the biggest yet.

Organiser Nick Fogg said: “Ticket sales have been good.

“We’ve sold about the same number as last year, and to stay the same in these difficult times is an achievement in itself.”

Other highlights include trombonist Chris Barber, Laurie Holloway accompanying Becki Biggins, and Jazz Jamaica founder Gary Crosby.

For tickets, visit www.marlboroughjazz.com or head to the box office in the High Street.