Although they didn't quite manage to claim a qualification place for Cheltenham at the Second Section Area Championship in Bedworth on the weekend, Ireland Colliery Chesterfield certainly enjoyed their 'Rise of the Phoenix' musical experience.

Ahead of their appearance in Bedworth the band turned up to rehearsal to find a massive phoenix of their own flying high above their heads.

Mythical birds

In fact there were a number of mythical birds spotted — with the flock kindly donated by Sheffield Carnival ahead of their own forthcoming appearance at a special phoenix themed parade around Norfolk Park in the city in July.

Karen Bolt, the wife of band conductor Lindon, is a highly respected artist and has been an integral part of the team responsible for the design and construction of the impressive costumes.

And although the band couldn't quite rise from the flames in triumph on this occasion it was a brilliant way to be inspired to play the music.