YOUNG musicians with Smithills School Senior Brass Band have an invitation to play on one of the world's premier stages - but first they need to be able to get there.

The band, who won the national champions title, is due to perform in the 1995 Youth Promenade Concert Series at the Royal Albert Hall in London on Tuesday, November 7.

Everything is in place - the programme, uniforms, equipment, music and accessories, from stands to mutes, and even banners.

Just one problem remains. The band still needs to know how it is getting there.

Sponsors who have already helped in various other areas include Sandersons Making Up Services of Bolton, who last year donated almost £4,000 worth of matching waistcoats and bow ties.

And McQueens's Musical Instruments, together with Bolton LEA Music Centre, have both lent a variety of equipment to the band over the past few years.

However, the band, led by Chris Wormald, is still £1,000 short of reaching the cost of the coaches needed to take them to and from London.

To reach their target the musicians have embarked on a series of sponsored events.

They are also selling their 1995 tapes and playing concerts.

On Tuesday, October 24, the band plays the Albert Halls, Bolton, 7.30pm, in a gala concert with proceeds split between the band's appeal and the Mayor of Bolton's charity fund.

Even so, the band still needs help.

Chris explained: "What we really need is either a local business to help us or individual donations, no matter how small, to help us on our way."

Anyone able to help can contact Chris Wormald at Smithills School on 842382.

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