ASTLEY Youth Band will celebrate its 10th birthday in style with a gala concert at the venue where it made its debut.

The big event, which will also mark the launch of the latest CD, has been organised for Saturday at Astley St Stephen's Church, the anniversary of the band's first public concert there.

The performance will be attended by the Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr and Mrs John Hilton, and musical guests will include David Little, head of brass at Wigan ITP and Martin Kay, head of instrumental music at Bolton Music Service.

Since the band's formation by musical director Helen Minshall it has gained a reputation for producing outstanding young musicians,

More than 250 players have passed through the doors, some who have gone on to study music at college or university, and others who now play in local adult bands.

The concert starts at 7.30pm. Admission is £3 adults, £2 concessions, pay on the door.