A new organisation has been established to help Aldbourne Band, one of the longest established and most respected bands in the West country.

The Friends of Aldbourne Band has been set up under the chairmanship of Harry Sheppard, a long time playing member whose son James continues the family tradition.

The Friends were set up at a meeting held in the village on November 20 and Mr Sheppard was unamously elected as founder chairman with Gavin Dixon as secretary. Any prospective members can enrol by ringing Mr Dixon (01672) 541204.