HATHERLEIGH Silver Band is getting ready to create some musical magic when they take part in an entertainment contest at the Pavilion Theatre, Exmouth on Saturday, September 8.

Press secretary Jim Reynolds said the band decided to enter the competition which features some 14 bands from the South West.

'This year we will be unable to attend the Annual South West British Bandsman Association Contest as the date regrettably coincides with Hatherleigh Carnival,' he said.

With the Exmouth venue viewed as an excellent substitute Hatherleigh Silver Band are currently polishing up some half a dozen of their favourite pieces to put together a varied 25-minute programme.

'It will be a nice day out. Winning isn't the be all and end all, it's the taking part,' said Mr Reynolds.

They will be taking part in the concert at 12.30pm — and in the afternoon the band will be playing for half an hour in the nearby gardens.

The band is kept busy playing engagements at an average of two a week. With a total membership of around 32 players the band can usually muster about 24 on average.

The band was unable to summon up enough puff for a recent 'Sponsored Blow' because of members' work commitments and holidays.

Mr Reynolds said the 'Sponsored Blow' was unable to go ahead because the intention to have a full day of blowing at venues around the town would have required more musicians than were available. However the band were able to muster enough players to give a spirited concert in the square during the evening — much to the delight of an appreciative crowd.