INTRODUCING the Tavistock Pro' Brass — a group of 14 musicians that have risen phoenix-like out of the ashes of the former Tavistock Town Band.

The new outfit is headed by musical director Tony Evans — making a welcome return to the local music scene after his departure as MD from the town band.

'We have the services of Norman Pendray, who is the finest cornet player in Cornwall, plus other players of a good standard,' said Tony.

'We have no committee but we have a steering group.'

He stressed the new brass ensemble was not a re-born Tavistock Town Band.

'The town band was, like the Stannary Band is, a traditional band so there was no point trying to do the same. We wanted to do something more modern.'

Founded almost two months ago the initial Tavistock Pro' Brass appearance will be at the Mayor's Christmas Concert which is in Tavistock Parish Church at 7.30pm on Thursday, December 21.

Support will come from Plymouth's latest jazz duo Colla Voce, ex-Welsh National Opera soprano Elaine Rockell and Mary Tavy harpist Abigail Pine.

Tickets, £5 are available from The Shambles in West Street, Tavistock.

Tony promises the concert will be a great night to remember.