ANGELA Rippon is to become the patron of Tavistock Stannary Brass Band and said she still retained an 'affection' for the town.

The band's former patron, Edward Woodward, regretfully had to give up his role on moving from his home near Calstock. The band was delighted Miss Rippon agreed to succeed him.

Miss Rippon spent her childhood in the Tavistock area and began her career as a journalist in Plymouth before becoming a well-known face on national television. She said she was pleased to be associated with a Tavistock band because, although her visits home are less frequent, she retained her affection for the town.

The band hopes to meet its new patron when her busy working schedule allows.