PREPARATIONS for a brass band's bid to win national glory are under way as it heads into its summer programme, this weekend.

Cockerton Silver Band, from Darlington, are in the final of the National Brass Band Championships, in Torquay, in September.

The 138-year-old band reached the final a performance in the regional heats that saw it come within a point of the winners from the York Railway Institute.

The band's summer programme starts at 7.30pm on Sunday, with a concert at Stressholme Golf Club.

Tickets are available from the venue, or from band members, costing £4, or £3 for concessions, and include a pie and peas supper. They are also available by telephoning (01325) 482901.