OKEHAMPTON Band have cause for celebration, having enjoyed successes at both Bideford Brass Band Solo and Quartet Contest and the Bugle West of England Bandsmen's Festival.

Four of the band's younger members took part in the annual Bideford Brass Band Solo and Quartet Contest, which had competitors from near and far on Saturday June 11.

Victoria Issac aged ten, and Edward Haskell aged eleven, played the cornet duet Allegretto in the under 17 category, and came in fourth place.

James Alexander, aged 13, and Josh Quick, 15, played the cornet duet Love's Old Sweet Song in the same age group, and finished in second place.

The band expressed thanks to Cathy Lovegrove for the time and effort she put into preparing for the event in recent weeks, and to Adrian Edwards for kindly agreeing to accompany them on piano.

The band was very successful at the Bugle West of England Bandsmen's Festival, finishing in second place as well as winning second place in the deportment category.

Bands from across the region march through the village of Bugle near St Austell to the contest ground, with the winning band performing in the village square.

Okehampton Band will next be performing this weekend at the Northlew Band centenary celebrations, which take place at 2.30pm on Saturday, June 25 in Northlew playing fields.

The band is always keen to welcome new players, young and old.

They meet on Mondays and Thursdays in the band room in the centre of Okehampton, starting at 7.30pm. Instruments can be provided if necessary.

For more information call Julie Hood on 01837 52806.