MUSICIANS and motor cars took centre stage to entertain shoppers and other visitors to a city centre yesterday.

Five musical combinations, catering for all tastes, performed from a temporary stage in front of St Nicholas Church, in Durham.

The rest of the Market Place became a temporary open air car showroom, with a display of new models by several local dealers.

Jointly organised by Durham Musicians' Union and traders' group Durham City Forum, the Live Music and Motors Day was part of the continuing drive to attract shoppers to the city.

Following the downpour that affected the previous weekend's Summer Festival in Durham, the weather was little better yesterday.

Richard Toynbee, of the forum, said the elements had not been kind for any outdoor events in recent weeks.

He said: "It is frustrating, but there is not much you can do about it. It has not been too bad today.

"People have been able to take in some of the performances, have a glance round the cars, go and do a little shopping and then maybe pop back to see who was next on stage."

Keith Smith, branch secretary of Durham Musicians' Union, said it was the 14th year the live open air event had been staged, with the aim of showcasing local talent, whatever the style.

Houghton Area Youth Band got things off to a good swing with Speakeasy and accomplished soloist Carole Clegg impressing with their versatile jazz and blues.

Cameo, a four-piece string quartet, brought a mellow contrast, followed by Lyra Celtica, playing traditional Scottish, Irish and Northumbrian music.

The afternoon was brought to a rousing finale with the lively rock and roll of Sound Explosion.

Published: 12/07/2004