A brass band contest, based solely on what a judge can hear rather than see, is back with a bang, for the fifth year in a row.

On Sunday, Darwen Market Square will host the fifth annual March and Hymn Tune Contest.

The growing annual event, which is organised by Blackburn and Darwen Band and supported by Darwen Town Council, will see more than 20 brass bands from all over the North West and as far as Yorkshire and Wales taking part.

Secretary of Blackburn with Darwen Band, Sue Speakman, said: "The event has grown significantly over the last few years and this is set to be the biggest yet.

"We have had a good number of people come down to watch in the past but we have aimed to make it more attractive to people this year with stalls and more refreshments to choose from."

The competitions range from youth all the way up to championship level and each band consists of approximately 25 members.

On the day, they will play a short march to walk down towards the square and then once in the square they play a 'contest march' followed by a Hymn.

This will be judged by an adjudicator who is concealed in a caravan so as not to gain any visual bias. The competition is based solely on what the judge can hear.

The Blackburn and Darwen Junior Band will also feature.

Anyone interested in learning more or attending the junior band can come along on the day or contact Sue Speakman via www.blackburnanddarwenband.co.uk.

The contest will take place between 12pm and 6pm on September 22. Entry is free and all are welcome.

For more information visit: www.blackburnanddarwenband.co.uk.