A BRASS band really got their wind up before a top ranking competition . . . inside a Bolton fish and chip restaurant.

Grateful members of the 28-strong Dodworth Colliery Band tucked into beans on toast and cooked breakfasts at the Ridgway Gate Fish and Chip shop, then settled down for a last minute practice.

The ravenous Yorkshire musicians ended up in the restaurant after searching round town for shelter and somewhere to rehearse. They had booked a room at the Victoria Hall in Knowsley Street but discovered they were locked out.

Luckily the Ridgway Gate - just yards from the Victoria Hall - offered them the upstairs room for a last minute practice session.

Band member Lisa O'Connor said: "We couldn't believe it. It's a crucial part of our routine to practice on the morning of a contest. We're really grateful to the Ridgway for stepping in - not everyone would welcome 28 brass band people and let us raise the roof tuning up as well."

The band from Barnsley were among 22 bands from around the country in Bolton's Albert Halls on Saturday for a qualifying heat of the British Open championship.

The Victoria Hall, which was also playing host as a practice venue to other visiting bands, opened shortly after the Dodworth team set up in the restaurant.

Wingates Band won the championship and Dodworth came eighth.

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