TYLDESLEY Band surprised a few championship section contestants on Sunday by taking second place at the "Brass at the Guild" contest at Preston Guild Hall.

They got off to the best start they could possibly wish for in their 125th year.

Mark Peacock led first section Tyldesley to their well-deserved second place despite having to compete with many higher section bands.

Mark said: "The band has done incredibly well. They are a fantastic bunch of people who work hard and show tremendous commitment to the band and the community. I couldn't imagine a better start to our 125th anniversary."

The band competes in the North West Area Championships at Blackpool on March 10th when they will be hoping they can go one better, which would secure a place in the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

The band is organising a series of special events to mark the anniversary. Prospective new players are welcome at Tuesday and Thursday (8pm-10pm) rehearsals at the Senior Citizens Centre in Milk Street, Tyldesley.