ONE of the region's leading brass bands is making a last-minute appeal to music lovers to help it win the title of Band of the Year.

Brass band website, www.4barsrest.com, has nominated the Reg Vardy Band, formerly the Ever Ready Band for Band of the Year.

Its conductor, Ray Farr, is also up for Conductor of the Year.

To win the nationwide competition, both have to attract votes from members of the public - and the voting closes tonight at 6pm.

Les Palmer, manager of the band, which is based in Stanley, County Durham, said: "We'd love to win this, given the year we've had.

"It would round off what has been an amazing 12 months and would be a fantastic Christmas present to all our members and Ray, our conductor, who are so dedicated to the band."

In October, the band came third in the national brass finals brass held at the Albert Hall in London.

It also took third place in the All England Masters Championship, went on its first overseas tour in 20 years and came eighth in the British Open, in Birmingham.

The band's next performance is at the Christmas carol service at Bethany Church, in Houghton-le-Spring, Wearside, tomorrow.

Fans can also listen to highlights of the band's performance last night at The Sage Gateshead, on BBC Radio 2, at 9pm on Boxing Day.

To vote for the band or Mr Farr, visit www.4barsrest.com/awards/form.asp

Published: 23/12/2004