MEMBERS of the Swinton and District Excelsior band are preparing to auction off their skills as part of a major fundraising drive to help pay for their appearance at a national competition,

The band is competing in the National Brass Band Championships to be held in Cheltenham in September.

Band secretary Stephen Popham said they were holding an Auction of Promises at The Yard in Malton on Sunday , July 13 starting at 6pm, to raise funds towards the trip.

"There will be around 65 lots ranging from car washing, music lessons, gardening, dog walking or having a poem composed especially for you to items such as a Robert Fuller Limited edition print, a nights stay at the Old Lodge with dinner, bed and breakfast, a day with an Equine Veterinary Surgeon and a ten day stay in a Gite in the Southern Dordogne region of France," he added.

On the night there will also be entertainment by Ryedale Jazz Band and a raffle.

Stephen added: "Everyone is welcome to come along and make a bid, you may get yourself a bargain as well as helping the band.

"The band is very grateful to all the businesses and individuals who have donated items, their skills money for this event and towards our other fundraising efforts. We hope as many people as possible can come along and make it a successful occasion."

To see the full details of lots available visit the Swinton and District Excelsior Band. facebook page.

To request a brochure or If you are unable to attend but would still like to make a bid for a lot e-mail to tpopham1@yahoo.co.uk