BLACKPOOL has always enjoyed a reputation for being brassy -- and to prove it the town is hosting a competition for youngsters to blow their own trumpet!

Around one thousand young musicians from across the UK will visit Blackpool's Winter Gardens for the annual Youth Brass Band Entertainment Festival of Great Britain on Sunday, February 10.

Each band must perform a 20 minute programme and will be judged on its musical and entertainment value and winners will receive a cash prize.

Event spokesman Peter Ross said the festival, now in its 17th year, is also a major fund-raising event. The charity Action Research, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary, has so far benefited to the tune of £100,000, he said.

And to celebrate there will be a special Action Research Golden Anniversary Award of £200 for the most entertaining band. Sponsor Yamaha will offer bursaries, a selection of trophies and instruments as prizes and all winners will receive an invitation to perform at the "All England Masters" event in Cambridge later this year.

He added: "The festival offers a spectacular feast of entertainment and a fun day out for all the family. Throughout the day children can meet Action Research mascot Paddington Bear, who will be on hand at the Winter Gardens to sign autographs and ensure that visitors and competitors behave themselves."

Festival co-ordinator Gary Walczak added: "The amount of energy and excitement generated by these musicians simply has to be heard to be believed.

"The weekend is about giving promising, up-and-coming brass bands the opportunity to perform to a capacity audience with professional production and facilities, getting more young people interested to take up learning a brass instrument, and of course raising as much money as we can for Action Research."

Catch the competition at the Winter Gardens on February 10 from 10am-6pm. Tickets priced £5 for adults, £3 for children and OAPs, or £13 for a family ticket are available on the door or by phoning Gary Walczak on 01706 373911.