YORKLEY-based local band Forest of Dean Brass are busier than ever in this Christmas season.

Following two well-received performances 100 feet below ground at Clearwell Caves in November, the band staged their very successful Christmas concert at Lydney Town Hall on Sunday evening.

The players were supported by popular local singer and raconteur Dick Brice and Wyedean School Gospel Choir.

The band proudly wore their new uniform for the first time at the Christmas concert.   They introduced their new musical director, Jack Smith, who has given Forest of Dean Brass a new impetus and enthusiasm for their music.

The concert programme included a range of popular and classical pieces with a Christmas connection, including a performance of Once in Royal David's City arranged specially for the band by Jack.  Principal cornet Craig Wintle's rendition of Grown Up Christmas List was extremely well received! 

Dick Brice aired a new song for only the second time: 'A Song for a Working Class Hero', the amazing story of Harry Toomer, whose quick thinking saved 177 lives in the Waterloo pit in 1949.   Harry's daughters attended the concert. 

Also this week, the band presented 'An Evening of Carols' at Yorkley village hall at 7.30 pm on Tuesday. On Thursday the band takes part in an annual presentation of Christmas music at Mitcheldean Village Hall.

On Christmas Eve the band performs as part of an evening service at 6pm at Coleford Baptist Chapel. In between times Forest of Dean Brass are booked to play at Tesco in Gloucester, Lydney and Chepstow, and Morrisons at Ross-on-Wye.

A spokesman said band members would like to thank everyone for their support during 2009.