Weekly sessions which had been held at the 17th century pub since 1992 ended in January with its abrupt closure. It looked like the end of jazz at the Puzzle until the reopening of the hostelry in July when organisers Geoff Amos and Pete Martin found the new leaseholders were in favour of jazz returning. They prepared an autumn programme which begins on Tuesday with a trio led by the guitarist Mike Walker.

"We are extremely pleased to be back at what is regarded as one of the top 10 small venues in Britain," said Geoff. "Musicians love to appear at the Puzzle, and they are given a free rein to play how and what they want."

Admission is free because the Puzzle's cosy lay-out makes it virtually impossible to charge, but customers are asked to contribute to a collection. There should be no shortage of support for a come-back season which varies from violinist Olivia Moore to bassist Steve Williams.

Benn Clatworthy, a Londoner who has made his home in Los Angeles, plays gale force tenor saxophone at Wakefield Sports Club tonight in the company of pianist Robin Aspland, bassist Simon Thorpe and drummer Martin Drew.

Meanwhile, Salerosa take their pulsating Cuban fusion project to the Lawrence Batley Theatre at Huddersfield.

Saxophonist Karen Sharpe, who won so many admirers in her years with Humphrey Lyttelton's band, leads her own quintet at Howden's Shire Hall tomorrow night.

Thursday brings the award-winning Neil Cowley Trio to The Venue at Leeds College of Music.