Members of a brass band that was crowned the National Champions of Great Britain, are having to use sticky tape to hold some of their instruments together.

Now Leyland Band, which has been running for almost 60 years is appealing for a sponsor to help them buy new instruments.

The band took the top trophy in a contest at the Royal Albert Hall in October, and will represent England in the European Brass Band Competition in Belfast next April.

Gary Westwood, band chairman, said: "We have managed to do a lot with the band because we were really struggling a few months ago.

"The future looks bright for us now though and we're definitely moving forward but we can't do it without the proper instruments. Some are beyond repair and we would have to rely on other people's instruments if we couldn't replace them which could affect our performance because you get used to playing your own instrument."

The band have played many concerts this year and have appeared on television and radio on shows like Songs of Praise.

Mr Westwood, who plays the cornet, also said the band could play at gala nights in return for sponsorship.

"It would be a case of beg, steal or borrow," said Mr Westwood, 42, who lives in Penwortham with wife, Sharon, and sons, Matthew and Josh.

"There is no way we would stop playing. We're doing well and we're performing in what is the Premiership of the brass world, we just need a little bit of help."

To help visit www.leylandband.co.uk and click on the contact button.