THE Cricklade Band and Band Academy was unanimously voted Charity of the Year by the Red Lion Charity Fund.

A spokesman for the band said: "Among other projects, this will enable us to plan a music theory education programme for all our trainee musicians, younger and older. We’ll also be able to continue our aims for music-making to be accessible, achievable and affordable with a modest subscription of £10 a quarter, less than £1 a week, for instruments, tuition and all!

"We all thank the Red Lion Charity Fund very sincerely. Please support them like they’re supporting the band in Cricklade."

The band will perform its Spring Forward show at Cricklade Town Hall on April 7 from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £6 and are available from Cricklade's council office or McFarlane Sales and Lettings on the High Street. Anyone with an interest in playing music is welcome to have a go or speak to the band at the concert. are welcome to have a go