ONE of the region's most successful brass bands is celebrating gaining financial support.

Fishburn Band, in County Durham, which was established in the 1950s, will be backed for the next three years by trade union law firm Thompsons.

The award-winning band has relied on support from the community for many years, and officials are pleased with the deal.

Band manager Malcolm Usher said he was delighted, and said: "The band constantly strives to maintain its high profile and standards on and off the stage."

Thompsons' North-East branch manager Robert Wood said: "Our sponsorship is based on our wish to strengthen our links with the local community."

Published: 15/01/2005