While the banding movement is struggling in some parts of the country, it's going strong in Cheltenham.

Adrian Pawley, chair of Cheltenham Silver Bands, said: "We have always prided ourselves on being a band for the local community, but since the pandemic-enforced hiatus on banding we have redoubled our efforts to bring brass band music, and the joy of banding, to Cheltenham and the surrounding area.

"We believe that everybody should have the opportunity to learn to play an instrument and take part in group music-making. To achieve this goal we aim to offer any person, whatever their age or ability, the opportunity to learn to read music and play a brass instrument, to grow in confidence, and develop their skills within a fun and safe brass band setting.

"Our family of bands ranges from our Learner Band, which will teach the basics, through the Training Band for developing players, to our main contesting Band.

"We now count over 100 playing members within our band family, with an age range of more than 70 years between the youngest and oldest member."

In March, for the second year in a row, two Cheltenham bands will take part in the West of England Regional Contest in Torquay.

Cheltenham Silver Band, conducted by Adrian Jowett, will be competing in the third section, whilst Cheltenham Silver Academy Band, led by Colin Forster, will take the stage in the fourth section.

Adrian added: "Our desire is to give as many of our members as possible the opportunity to experience this unique aspect of banding. We believe that we might be the only band in the UK putting forward bands in both the lower sections of the competition - we would love to hear from you if we are wrong.

"As part of our preparation for Torquay we have been grateful for the support and guidance of Ben Hannaford-Waddington (Tredegar Band), Nigel Howard (A.W. Parker (Drybrook) Band), Phil Storer (Gloucestershire Music) and Nigel Galliot.

"Thank you also to our friends at Tredegar Band for helping us with our percussion, and at Flowers Band for the loan of a BBb bass.

"Even though we have a large membership, we are always looking for new players at all levels. Whether you are an experienced player, just starting out, or looking to return to banding after a

break, there's a place in one of our bands for you. Everyone is welcome."

If you would like to know more about Cheltenham Silver Bands, please check out the website www.cheltenhamband.co.uk, email contact@cheltenhamband.co.uk  or follow the bands on Facebook, Instagram or X (@cheltenhamsilverband).