Throughout December last year Boarshurst Band set a special 'Jingle Bells Challenge' for the brass band community to help raise money for the Music for Youth organisation that supports children across the UK to access music lessons and provide opportunities for children to perform in some of the UK's finest concert halls.

Wine bottles

Initially aimed at the brass bands, it soon became obvious that many different ensembles wanted to help their cause, with bands, ensembles, choirs, orchestras and even a man and a few wine bottles giving it a go!

MD James Garlick told 4BR: "When we set up the challenge we had a target of £1000 — and if I'm honest I wasn't expecting to get there as bands are always very busy fund raising for their own causes.

However, the challenge was taken up brilliantly and the videos of people taking it up came from all around the world. This meant that the target was smashed quickly a new one had to be set. In the end a grand total of £3,800 was raised."

the challenge was taken up brilliantly and the videos of people taking it up came from all around the world. This meant the target was smashed quickly and a new one had to be set. In the end a grand total of £3,800 was raisedJames Garlick

Thanks

James added: "Special thanks to go to Kyle Blake and Louise Belton and all the players who formed an amazing Friends of Music for Youth Band that performed a full live streamed concert at Boarshurst Band Club and raised in excess of £700.

I can't thank people enough for the support they have showed. It's been amazing to see many different ensembles and musicians coming together to have fun and help many young musicians across the UK."