FOREST of Dean Area Community Wind Band received a gold award at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) held at All Saints Academy School in Cheltenham on Sunday.

Musical director, Sam Davis said: “The band is made up predominantly of young people from the area, supported by some adult players, and we meet each Saturday morning at Lakers School in Coleford.

“The wind band gave sparkling performances of La Caracola by Philip Sparke, How to Train Your Dragon by John Powell and Vortex by Robert Long­field. The adjudicators were full of praise for the choice of programme and the quality of playing of the musicians.

“It was amazing to achieve such a wonderful performance at this stage in the band’s development. I am so proud of everyone who took part and look forward to a bright future for the wind band.”

Steven Legge, extended learning and provisions manager for Gloucester-shire Music, said: “This is a true community wind band; supportive, fun, engaging and rewarding. 

To gain a gold award at the NCBF is a great achievement for these players and should be applauded. Well done to Sam, his team and performers.”

The band is performing at Coleford Baptist Church on Sunday, December 4 with Coleford Community Choir and Coalway Singers.

The concert will include a repeat performance of their gold winning programme and starts at 7pm.

Tickets are available on the door.