Campbeltown Brass has stepped up both its musical and fundraising efforts ahead of a 1,000 mile round trip from their home on the Mull of Kintyre to the National Championships in Cheltenham next weekend.

Gray help

The Third Section Scottish champion, three quarters of whom are under the age of 18, recently enjoyed a weekend of rehearsals with Yamaha Artist Russell Gray.

He performed as guest soloist in a concert with the band under MD, Gordon Evans MBE, as well as working with members of the beginner, junior and senior bands.

Fund raising

The forthcoming trip has been financed by a magnificent fund raising effort, with everything from coffee mornings to a crowdfunding campaign raising the money to get them there, as cornet player Katrina Barr, told 4BR: "Everyone is working really hard. We were delighted to welcome Russell Gray to Campbeltown.

He was able to bring out the best from everyone and gave the players a real boost."

Around 18 of the players who take to the stage for the contest will be under the age of 18 so we would be grateful for support from anyone who can help them enjoy what will be a musical experience to treasureCampbeltown

Help

Katrina continued: "Around 18 of the players who take to the stage for the contest will be under the age of 18 so we would be grateful for support from anyone who can help them enjoy what will be a musical experience to treasure."

Anyone looking to support the band can log on to www.justgiving.com and search for Campbeltown Brass.

More information

More information about the band is available by logging on to: www.campbeltownbrass.co.uk