A HECTIC summer music schedule has put members of Bretforton Silver Band in good stead for a very busy Christmas season.

The band is now fine tuning its programme for the annual Christmas concert at Evesham Arts Centre on December 14 where pieces will include festive favourites, traditional and contemporary band pieces.

The main band's training band "Bret Set Go" which was formed just 12 months ago will be joining in and rehearsals are going well.

Mike Butler who conducts the keen learners said: "The learners have enjoyed playing all summer and are now really looking forward to performing at the Christmas concert."

Tuition and attendance in the training band is provided completely free from members of the main band who are actively involved in helping and encouraging the learners. John Wood, the senior band conductor explained: "The work that goes on in the Bret Set Go band is vital to the long term success of the main band and we're particularly proud of this training band and always delighted to discover new talent."

The Christmas concert will also mark the very first public event that people can purchase the main band’s brand new CD, ‘Isn’t this a lovely day’. Recorded at The Old Smithy recording studio in Kempsey, the CD features a variety of tunes, including movie themes from the action adventure of James Bond’s ‘Skyfall’ to the blockbuster ‘Gladiator’. Band secretary, Laura Hunt said: “The band thoroughly enjoying making this exciting CD and it would make a perfect Christmas stocking filler for those who are stuck with gift ideas."

In addition the band will be carol playing around the local area over the Christmas season, including taking part in Bretforton village’s carol concert at St Leonard’s Church on Sunday December 21. Following all the festivities the band’s attention will then look towards 2015 as this will mark their 120th year since their formation.

Tickets for the Evesham concert cost £8 from the Arts Centre box office or from the Almonry Museum.