STRIKE up the band! A top brass band will give a musical salute to the Queen when the monarch visits Blackburn tomorrow.

Blackburn and Darwen Band will entertain Her Majesty when she enters Church Street for what will be its first performance for a member of the Royal Family.

The 20-strong group will play film and musical classics as the Queen is given a tour round the street, which has become a symbol of the regeneration of Blackburn town centre.

There she will unveil a plaque to commemorate a £45million extension of The Mall shopping centre.

The Queen is to visit Lancashire as part of a nationwide tour to celebrate her 80th birthday last month.

The band's tuba player, Derek Johnson, said: "It is quite an honour for us because it is the first time we have played in front of royalty. I would say it is the most prestigious thing we have done for a long time."

The band, which is funded by Blackburn with Darwen Council, will play light selections including the theme tune from the movie Out of Africa.

Members play more than 20 concerts a year, from public events to brass band competitions, all decked out in matching red jackets and bow ties.

Mr Johnson said: "They could be quite nervous, the adrenaline will be showing a little bit. It will be more than just playing for a normal park event."

He added: "Having a brass band there makes it really. To have some kind of music will definitely add to the event.

"I hope she enjoys it. We are certainly looking forward to it."

Loraine Jones, general manager of The Mall, said: "We are honoured to have such a distinguished guest to help us celebrate this major investment in Blackburn.

"The plaque will take pride of place at The Mall when the redevelopment work is complete."