A BRASS band which seeks to develop the musical talents of its members is searching for a practise and concert venue after outgrowing its purpose-built base.

Northallerton Silver Band, which was established in the 1960s, is seeking to sell its room in Romanby Road and relocate to a larger venue in the town after seeing its membership rise to 35.

Band spokeswoman Pam Prest the ensemble was attracting players from as far as Boroughbridge and Teesside, partly due to its non-competitive status and light-hearted approach, and needed a venue for its twice-weekly rehearsals where members could park nearby.

She said it was hoped the new base in the town would also be large enough to stage concerts, to cut venue hire costs and maximise the funds their shows raise for charities.

Mrs Prest said: "It is quite exciting to think we could have our own concert hall.

"There are other bands that are nearer to the homes of some of our members, but as we don't compete, which can cause ill-feeling if somebody makes a mistake, everybody gets on really well.

"The members are people who like to work as a team and above all, it is about having fun."

The band, whose members range from young teenagers to elderly players, perform a repertoire including Elvis covers to Pomp and Circumstance at four concerts a year and numerous shows at events including Masham Sheep Fair, the Northallerton Festival and the Willowman Festival, in Knayton.

Hundreds turned out for the band's Last Night of the Proms concert in The Forum, Northallerton, on Friday (October 17), proceeds from which will be donated to the St Teresa's Hospice, in Darlington.

The band will perform a show at Thirsk and Sowerby Town Hall on Saturday (October 25), at 7.30pm, to raise funds for the relocation of its base.

Tickets, costing £7, are available from White Rose Book Cafe, Market Place, Thirsk, or on the door.

Mrs Prest said while the band was keen to bolster its euphonium section, it would welcome any brass instrument players.

She added: "A lot of people start with the cornet because they are smaller and easier to carry around, and if someone needs a bit of tuition to develop their playing, that's fine."

Members contribute £1 a week towards the operation of the band, including instrument hire.

The band meets on Mondays and Thursdays, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Anyone with a suitable venue for the band or wanting details about joining, can visit northallertonsilver.bravehost.com or call 01609 777272.