ONE of the North-East's best known brass bands has hit a high note after securing a five-year sponsorship deal.

The Reg Vardy (Ever Ready) Band is the new name for the 28-musician band, formed in 1910 at Craghead Colliery, near Stanley.

For the last 12 years the former Ever Ready Band - still recognised as one of the leading bands in the country - has been self-supporting and and is the reigning Northern Area Champions. The support from Reg Vardy will allow the Stanley-based band to update its scarlet uniforms, commission new music, upgrade the band room and subsidise travel and accommodation costs.

Band manager Les Palmer said: "Everyone is delighted to have the support of Reg Vardy and we're looking forward to a long and rewarding relationship with one of the most successful motor dealer groups in Europe."

The Craghead Colliery Band, as it was originally known, was formed to lead a funeral procession following a fatal accident at the pit, and to provide social activity for the miners in the village. By 1924 the band had become North of England Champions.

Reg Vardy chief executive Sir Peter Vardy said: "Music is one of my passions after the car business and we're delighted to support the dedication and talent of the band so it can go on to entertain and bring pleasure to many thousands of people."