A BRASS band has recorded a compact disc to raise money for the chance to compete at the Royal Albert Hall next month.

Ferryhill Town Band are the Northern Area champions, which qualifies them to take part in the national finals in London.

In order to pay for the trip to the capital, the band has recorded a compact disc and cassette called Past Times with Good Company. Band member Peter Atkinson said: "We think the CD and cassette tape would make an ideal gift as a memento of Ferryhill, and copies have already been ordered by local people."

The compact disc features many well known pieces of music, including the march from the movie The Great Escape and Gresford, the miners' hymn.

It was launched last weekend when the band appeared at Bishop Auckland Town Hall and Beamish Museum, and made a surprise appearance at a Ferryhill couple's wedding.

The compact disc, priced at £10, or tape at £6, are available from Ferryhill Library and other outlets in the town