The Aldbourne Band, under new MD, Joshua Ruck, will be heading to the beautiful Loire region of France this weekend to compete at the French Open Championship in Amboise (above).

First time

It is a first for the Wiltshire band, and they are certainly looking forward to entertaining the French crowds as well competing against the likes of Norwegian champion Stavanger and the top flight French outfit of Nord Pas de Calais.

It is also several years since Aldbourne undertook an overseas trip, and they hope to be able to make new friendships and links with other brass players from around the world.

This is a great opportunity to showcase our talents and gives our new MD the chance to take the band into a new competitive arenaChairman James Sheppard

Showcase

Chairman James Sheppard told 4BR: "This is a great opportunity to showcase our talents and gives our new MD the chance to take the band into a new competitive arena.

We were very pleased with our result at the recent Grand Shield in Blackpool and we now hope to build on that success in France against some very fine bands."