MUSICIANS in a famous Whitefield brass band are blowing their own trumpets after qualifying for the finals of a UK contest for the first time in 20 years.

Besses o'th Barn senior band have not reached the final stages of "Boosey and Hawkes" national brass band competition since 1982.

But sheer hard work and determination has at last paid off, and they will be playing alongside the cream of the country's brass bands at the final in October.

The band members, who practice in the band room in Moss Lane, Whitefield, came fourth in the qualifying round held at the Opera House in Blackpool.

The finals are at the Royal Albert Hall in London and band members now have the mammoth task of trying to raise around £5,000 to fund the trip.

Committee member and player Dave Aston said: "We need to organise travel and hotel accommodation but one of our main expenses will be new uniforms for the band.

"Our old ones are getting a bit tatty and we would like to look our best for the competition."

Mr Aston said he would welcome sponsorship or donations from any local businesses or individuals.

If anyone can help the band they should contact Mr Aston on 01772 701216.