PLAYERS of all ages are taking on a series of physical challenges to raise money for new band hall.

Kirkbymoorside Town Brass Band is currently fundraising for a joint Scout and Band Hall to be built in Manor Vale.

The hall will enable the band to continue its world leading teaching to more than 120 adults and children from Kirkbymoorside and the surrounding villages.

The building will secure both the future of the band, but also scouting in Kirkbymoorside, who will also have their home there.

As the building work reaches its final stage, players are raising funds to complete the project.

On Saturday, April 27, three of the band’s younger players, Charlie Flintoft, Ella Smailes, both aged 11, and Theo Flintoft, 10, will be travelling to London to scale the 02 Arena. The trio will don harnesses to complete the 100 metre long, 50 metre high climb.

Charlie, Ella and Theo play in the beginner, learner and training bands and have been inspired by senior player Joe Sails who, on Sunday, May 5, will be also donning a harness, but on this occasion to complete the Kirkbymoorside 10K carrying a bass, weighing over 13kg.

Ella said: “We couldn’t believe it when we heard Joe was running the 10k carrying a bass, I can’t even lift one. In fact, I would probably fit inside it.

“We thought if Joe can do that we can do something incredible too, but I am a bit nervous about it.”

Joe said: “Growing up band was always a big part of my life with my dad, John, brother Jack and I all playing.

“It has given us all such great memories and experiences and I wanted to do my bit to make sure this opportunity was available for generations to come.”

The history of Kirkbymoorside Town Brass Band dates back to at least 1815.

The current band room was built in 1976 on land donated by James Holt who lives in the village.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Joe, Ella, Charlie and Theo can visit the band Virgin Money Page at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/kirkbybandhall