A 138-YEAR-OLD town band have celebrated two big events in the past few weeks.

Cinderford Brass Band was firstly awarded full charity status, then they learnt they had won promotion.

Chairman Chris Walding said: “We’re delighted to have been formally recognised as a charity which benefits the general public through concerts, contest performances and teaching/training of children, young and old, as well as preserving the heritage of a 138-year-old organisation.”

The South West Brass Band Association have also confirmed that the band have been promoted to the Second Section following their high placings at the regional finals in the past three years.

Any potential brass, wind or percussion players are most welcome to academy band rehearsals on a Wednesday evening at 6.30pm, at the Foxes Bridge Day Centre in Valley Road, Cinderford. Instruments are provided and there is no charge.

Having gained promotion, the senior band are also looking to strengthen their ranks, in particular with cornet and percussion players.

They rehearse on a Wednesday and Sunday evenings, from 8pm and 7pm respectively. Anyone is welcome to join in or simply listen to the rehearsal, so feel free to come along.

Mr Walding thanked Anthony Murrell for his support in preparing the submission to the Charities Commission. Cinderford Brass Band are now registered as a charitable incorporated organisation, registration number 1172395.