MEMBERS of a pipes and drums band have said they are surprised at not being invited to perform in their local area for the Queen's golden jubilee.

The Teesdale Pipes and Drums band has performed in the Barnard Castle area for more than ten years, but it has not been asked to play in the dale this summer.

The band was expecting to play at a venue this summer in Teesdale, to mark the Queen's golden jubilee, but have instead been invited to perform in Richmond next month.

The band, which is seeking new members, has entertained visitors to carnivals and events in Teesdale every year since it formed in 1991.

Pipe Major Barry Waldren said: "We have played in Teesdale every year since we formed the band, and we were expecting to perform somewhere in Teesdale this year, as part of the Queen's golden jubilee celebrations, but no-one has come forward.

"Richmond council has seen us perform and they snapped us up, and we are happy to play in the town. We are just surprised there was no interest from Teesdale."

The band will perform in Richmond town centre from 9am, on June 4.

It will also perform at the Newgate Centre, in Bishop Auckland, between 9am and 3pm, on July 20.

To join the band, contact Mr Waldren, on (01833) 660562.