A MILITARY band from County Durham, which has thrilled audiences across the world, has now produced a charity CD.

The Pipe and Drums of the 102 Battalion Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers, also known as The Northern Craftsmen, has released the CD as part of its ongoing support of ABF The Soldiers Charity.

Pipe major Gary Dodd said the CD would appeal to a wide range of people as it contains a selection of well known tunes, including stirring marches and jigs, traditional songs and modern compositions.

“We have never released a CD before and the timing just seemed right,” he said. “Fifty per cent of the proceeds will be donated to ABF The Soldiers Charity who need the money more than ever now.

“It will help the charity provide vital support to soldiers and their families, in particular those who have suffered as a result of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Based in Newton Aycliffe, the band dates back to 1902 and currently contains 18 members.

The CD, which contains tracks featuring the Royal Signals Northern Band, is available at £10 plus £1.20 postage from: ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Debdon Gardens, Newcastle, NE6 5TL.