A BRASS band with a 150-year history is appealing for donations so it can represent Darlington in a national competition.

Cockerton Silver Band has won through to the final of the National Brass Band Championships, to be held in the south Devon resort of Torquay in September.

The band came second in the regional heats, just one point behind the winners from the York Railway Institute.

Despite coming second, the band still reached the national final.

That accolade followed a win in the Durham County Brass Band Association's annual gradings contest, which was held in Spennymoor in February.

The band is already rehearsing the test piece in readiness for the national competition in September.

A spokesman for the band said: "The musical director, Graham Catherall, is preparing the band for the contest, striving for musical excellence with a keen eye on repeating recent successes.

"Meanwhile, other band members are engaged in the logistical arrangements of transporting the band, families and supporters, the 400-plus miles to Torquay."

To help fund the trip, the band is appealing for sponsorship as well as holding its own events to raise the £4,000 needed.

The spokesman said: "The cost of transport and accommodation for the band is not insignificant and a number of fundraising events will take place over the summer.

"As well as raising our own funds, the band is appealing for sponsorship from individuals or companies who want to help us get to the finals."

Cockerton Silver Band was formed in 1864, making it one of the oldest in the country.

As well as spending time rehearsing for the competitions later in the year, the musicians are also preparing for their annual summer programme.

Their first concert is on Sunday from 7.30pm at Stressholme Golf Club, Darlington.

Anyone wishing to sponsor the band should call band treasurer Adrian Gardiner on (01325) 463691