KNIGHTON Town Silver Band has been given a Lottery grant by the Arts Council of Wales to buy a new complete set of band instruments.

The band's own contribution of 10 per cent was raised as a result of local generosity, successful concerts and an increase in the number of band bookings from all over the area.

The success of the application is largely due to the efforts of the band secretary and librarian Gwen Davies with the valuable support of bands chairman Ian Holland.

The band has vacancies for some adult learners, male or female, and age is no barrier. Some knowledge of music would be helpful but not essential.

As the band is keen to enrol new members any 'lapsed' musicians out there - adults or youngsters - looking for enjoyment and serious music making would be welcome.

The junior band meets at Knighton Primary School at 4.30pm on Thursdays and the senior band at 7.30 pm on Wednesdays at the Drill Hall, Knighton.

The band now has its own web site at www.knighton-town-silver-band.co.uk set up by their solo cornet player Martin Tompkins with the help of Mandy Jenkinson, first euphonium, and Debbie Jenkinson, tenor horn.

The website contains news, gossip, pictures and a calendar of the bands event and gigs.

For band bookings contact Gwen Davies on 02547 528125.

The band's spring concert will be on April 28 at the Community Centre starting at 7.30pm under the baton of musical director David Wilson. The band will be in concert with the junior band and Craven Arms Men's Chorus conducted by Basil Cullum.

Tickets are available from The Book Shop, Knighton, 01547 520224, or band members.