COCKERTON Band is appealing for help to keep going.

The Darlington brass band, which has been going for more than 100 years, needs to raise money to carry out repairs to its band room and to buy new instruments and uniforms.

The cost of transporting 30 musicians and instruments to the recent National Brass Band Championships in Torquay has taken its toll on funds.

A spokesman said: "It is a great honour and tribute to the efforts of the band and its musical director, Graham Catherall, to get to the national finals, but without new instruments we will be unable to maintain our high standard. "

The band's next concert takes place on Sunday at Mowden Park Rugby Club, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £4, concessions £2.50, and are available at the club or by calling (01325) 482901.