THE Haslingden and Helmshore Brass Band swept the board at a regional championships.

The Manchester and District Brass Band Championships saw the Rossendale outfit taking first prize in the second section, achieving 187 points for their rendition of A London Overture.

Then trombone players Phil Shatliff, Andrea Wilkinson and Ian McFarland took the prize for the best trombones in the section.

Secretary Andrea Holland, was awarded a shield as secretary of the winning band.

Not content with having received top honours in their own section the band then went on to come a creditable fourth in the championship section, beating bands graded above them.

Musical director of the band David Holland said he was proud of the band's achievements: "Everyone has put so much effort in to rehearsals and on the day raised their game."

The band is now starting work for the North West regional qualifiers of the National Championships in March.

The band also runs a junior band and teaches youngsters on a Tuesday and Thursday evening from 7pm to 8pm at the band room in Wells Street, Haslingden.

The cost is 50p, which includes loan of instrument and tuition. Anyone who is interested should contact the secretary on 01706 210490.