Astley Youth Band has just returned from a successful weekend tour of Scotland, which featured performances in Annan and Dumfries.

Performances

The 25 strong band and 15 supporters travelled north to perform at the Ordination of Alan McGougan, a former band member whose children have been members of the band during the last 10 years. Alan has been appointed Minister of Anna United Reformed Church, and has relocated to Scotland with his wife Trish.

Alan invited the band to perform at his Ordination Service before giving a concert under the baton of MD, Toby Hobson.

Outdoor

The following day the band joined with Dumfries Town Band and their Musical Director, Peter Heyes, to give an outdoor performance at the Mid-Steeple in the centre of Dumfries.

Each band performed for an hour, and there were two joint march items of ‘Slaidburn’ and ‘Death or Glory’.

We had a wonderful time. Dumfries Town Band were very supportive and appreciative and made us feel very welcome in the townMD, Helen Minshall

Wonderful time

Helen Minshall told 4BR: "We had a wonderful time. Dumfries Town Band were very supportive and appreciative and made us feel very welcome in the town."

The tour ended with an enjoyable Italian meal at the award-winning Pizzeria 'Il Fume' in Dumfries, where presentations were made. The ‘Player of the Tour award went to young drummer, Liam Taylor, just 11 years old, who had made an exceptional contribution over the weekend.