VETERANS from one of the region's most respected music competitions will be reunited next month to mark eight decades of success.

Consett Music Festival celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. The group was formed in 1924 as Consett began to modernise following the First World War, with the demolition of the Company Rows that had dominated the old town centre.

The first events took place in Consett landmarks such as the Methodist Lecture Halls, in Middle Street and the Avenue.

Along with the music and singing classes, there was also an elocution contest, in Consett Co-operative Hall.

The festival later moved to the technical college, then to Blackfyne School, and for a time to Derwentside College.

For the past few years, it has taken place in Blackfyne Community School.

Although the elocution classes ended in the mid 1960s, the event remains one of the most popular music festivals in the North-East and is regarded as a platform for talented youngsters from across the region.

The celebration takes place on Saturday, September 18, at 7pm, in St Patrick's Hall, Consett. Patrons, former committee members and competitors are invited.

There will be a display of memorabilia from the past 80 years of the festival, including newspaper cuttings, photographs and old festival programmes, as well as a history of its trophies.

There will also be entertainment from former festival winners and a buffet supper.

Tickets cost £6 and are available from Isobel Varty, on (01207) 509600.