On September 26, members of Bath Spa Band will be setting off for Harrogate to take part in the national finals of the British brass band championshps.

The local players were successful in the regional contest in Torquay in March where they came second out of 14 bands in the final section.

This month the players will be performing at the Harrogate International Centre on Saturday September 27 where they are up against the top third section bands from all over the country including Verwood Concert Brass also bands from the west of England, London and southern counties, the Midlands, the north of England, Scotland, Wales and Yorkshire.

Bath Spa Band has 25 brass players going to Harrogate plus three percussionists, all under the watchful eye of musical director, Dave Hayward as well as many supporters in the form of family and friends of band members.

The band's test piece for later this month is Suite for Brass by John Rutter arranged by Sandy Smith. This piece was originally composed for strings by John Rutter (called Suite for Strings) and this is a new arrangement by Sandy so a brand new piece for brass. It is based on British folk songs and is in 4 movements.

The Bath Spa Band was established in 1921 as the St James Mission Church Band and is a registered charity with no professional players.

The band meets on Mondays and Thursday at Elim Pentecostal Church in Charlotte Street , Bath.

Anyone who is interested in joining the band should call Rachael Potter on 07834 920255. Instruments are available.