A SILVER band from Wotton-under-Edge excelled themselves as they took second place in a tournament in Torquay.

Wotton Silver Band performed at the West of England Championships on Saturday, March 14.

Currently working at their highest standard in the band’s history, they took second place out of 15 in the second section, after only being promoted to compete in that part of the competition last year.

The group’s achievement in Torquay will see the group promoted to the first section – an honour they haven’t previously had in the their 120-year history.

The piece the band chose to play in the competition was variations of Maccabeus by Kevin Norbury.

They will go on to represent the area alongside the winners from Drybrook at Cheltenham Racecourse on September 19 and 20.

Despite their success, the band are not intending to take a break just yet and have a full diary of engagements ahead of them, the next being a joint concert with Round the Edge Community Choir.

A percentage of the proceeds of this concert will be donated to Cotswold Care Hospice

A spokesman for the band said: “We are looking forward to our next public performance in St Mary's Church

“Both the band and choir are delighted to be coming together for the first time and hope it will be a memorable concert.

“We hope people will be able to support us in helping the hospice.”

The concert will take place on Wednesday, April 25 at 7.30pm for The Arts Festival Week.

Tickets are available from Robinson's Florist, Long Street, The Cotswold Bookroom, also in Long Street or by telephoning Jo Woodman on 01453 887774 or Ken Stout on 01454 294295. Tickets are £7 for adults and £5 for under-12s.

If you wish to follow the band's progress or check on our list of engagements please visit our website www.wottonsilverband.co.uk.