TWO military bands bid farewell to the region with a rousing concert last night.

Six hundred people attended the last scheduled performance of the Normandy Band of the Queen's Division and Waterloo Band of the King's Division.

The proms-style concert was held at Richmond Station, in Richmond, North Yorkshire.

Among the guests were 80 dignitaries from across the North-East and North Yorkshire.

The bands - both based at Catterick Garrison - will fold later this year following a cost-cutting exercise by the Government.

Many of the bands' 50 members will reform in a new band, although others will be assigned to bands elsewhere in the country.

Bandmaster of the Normandy Band, Warrant Officer Class One Sean Riley, said all the musicians were waiting to hear what their future held.

He said: "It's sad that the two bands are disbanding and it will be sad to lose the cap badge.

"Our relationship with the local community and residents has been very good. However, we will embrace the future and look forward to what's coming."

Waterloo Band director of music, Captain Jason Griffiths, stressed that the new band would still be available to play at events in the region.

The bands were formed in 1994 and have performed all over the world. In 2003, The Normandy Band was deployed on Operation Telic, serving with 34 Field Hospital in Kuwait and Iraq.

As well as providing medical assistance, the band performed for service personnel and civilians whenever possible.

The Ministry of Defence plans to reduce the number of military bands from 29 to 23.

Last night's programme included proms favourites such as Jerusalem, Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory.

The bands were accompanied by Richmond Church of England Primary School Choir and soprano Susan Limbert.

Money raised from the concert will go to good causes chosen by Richmond Mayor Stuart Parsons.

These include the Richmond Open Spaces Appeal and the Richmondshire Building Preservation Trust, which aims to restore the venue of last night's concert.