VETERANS’ stories of how music shaped life in the Armed Forces are marching into the Durham Dales as part of a series of events marking St George’s Day.

The Durham Light Infantry When the Bugle Calls Exhibition has already been enjoyed by hundreds of people since it opened in Bishop Auckland Town Hall in December.

And next month it will inspire even more people when it moves to the Durham Dales Centre in Stanhope, where it will run alongside other events and activities celebrating England’s patron saint on Monday, April 23.

These events include Beat the Drum, a concert of First World War songs performed by folk duo Fool’s Gold on April 22 from 2pm to 3.30pm; and a Veterans Woodcraft exhibition, featuring work by talented ex-servicemen and women who are recovering from illness and injury.

The exhibition runs from April 23 to April 29 between 11am and 4pm, and includes two pole lathe workshops on April 28 and April 29.

When The Bugle Calls, meanwhile, runs from April 20 to May 6, from 11am to 4pm, with entry also free.

Oscar Watson, manager of the Durham Dales Centre, said: “I am really pleased to have the opportunity to host When the Bugle Calls at the Durham Dales Centre. The exhibition is about the role of the regimental band in the British Army and fits in well with our programme of a concert by Fool’s Gold: “Beat the Drum” commemorating World War One and the residency by Veteran Woodcrafts.”

He added: “The woodcraft exhibition is something we are especially excited about. I have seen some of the work and it is outstanding.”

With the story of the DLI’s band at its heart, When The Bugle Calls tells the tales of how both the British army and individual soldiers used music to rally their regiments, keeping morale alive in dark and dangerous times. It will remain at Bishop Auckland Town Hall until April 7.

Councillor Ossie Johnson, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for tourism, culture, leisure and rural issues, said: “Military music has always been a stirring sound – The marching feet, the glistening brass and the beat and rattle of drums attract people and hold them spellbound.

"And through this exhibition we are taking new and exciting stories out to our communities, building on our offer at Palace Green, Sevenhills and Durham County Record Office, our education outreach work and over 190 hours each and every week by DLI Volunteers, who selflessly work on the DLI Collection and share their knowledge.

"We hope the people of Weardale and beyond take this opportunity to discover more about such a rich part of our collective heritage.”

Tickets for Beat the Drum cost from £3.50 to £5. Contact 03000-264300. Volunteers are needed to help staff When the Bugle Calls during the week. Lunch and a contribution to travel expenses can be provided. Contact 03000-264300 or durham.dales.centre@durham.gov.uk