A LONG-standing band which has more than 120 players has received high praise for the work it does for the local community.

Kirkbymoorside Town Brass Band, which celebrated its bi-centenary last year, has been commended by the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, John Furness.

Whilst supporting the crown and judiciary are central elements of the year-long post, the High Sheriff also has a role in encouraging and supporting charities.

Mr Furness presented the band with a cheque for £250 at the band room in Manor Vale, where he was also able to meet members and learn of their future plans.

He said: “I am delighted to present this High Sheriff Award to the Kirkbymoorside Town Band. This band has served the community for many years. They perform for free to numerous charitable fundraising events and offer excellent training programmes to its members."

Mr Furness added: "Thousands of people enjoy the band each year and I am very happy to support and commend them for their good work in serving their local community.”

Kirkbymoorside Town Brass Band now has more than 120 players across five bands, providing free instruments and tuition to all who wish to learn, with players aged from five to 75.

It also provides brass tuition in two local primary schools, whilst the senior band represents the town and county at the highest level at competitions throughout the UK. As the town band, they are an integral part of the community, and play for town events such as the 10K Fair, tractor run, Christmas carolling and Armistice Parade.

John Woodward, Kirkbymoorside Town Brass Band Master, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised in such a way, it is a real honour to have been able to welcome the High Sheriff to our Band Room here in Manor Vale, to meet our youngsters, players and committee. We feel this is not only recognition of our work, but also of our community, the town of Kirkbymoorside. They support us in all we do and we are so proud to be their band.”

For further details about the band go to www.kirkbyband.co.uk