AN award-winning North-East brass band has been forced to postpone a celebration concert marking its 150th birthday due to coronavirus.

Cockerton Prize Silver Band was due to stage the concert at the Dolphin Centre, in Darlington, on Saturday May 16.

However, the band has unfortunately had to stop rehearsals for the foreseeable future, and will be rescheduling the concert due to the outbreak.

Vice chair Linda Steel said that the band will refuse to let coronavirus stop them from marking their 150th anniversary - even if the celebrations have to be postponed until next year.

The band recently became North of England 2nd section champions after winning the area contest. This has qualified them to compete in the national finals, in Cheltenham, in September.

Members also won a string of individual awards including Best Euphonium - Dave Hodgeson, Best Soprano cornet - Beth Marston and Best Bass section, which went to three members David Bowman, Richard Mason, Steve Petty and Isaac Annesley.

Refunds are being offered on the May 16 and can be arranged by calling 01325 251482.