AN olive branch to the tune of £6,500 has been extended to the Froxfield Phoenix Brass Band who have used it well to buy three new tenor horns.

Thanks to the Marlborough Area Board, the town council and their supporters club the Friends of Phoenix, the band have purchased the instruments which was according to them was greatly needed and is greatly appreciated.

Marilyn Mason, band member, said: "We cannot thank these three groups enough for these grants. Now we have three nice shiny new tenor horns that we cannot wait to put to good use.

"We are totally delighted that they have responded to our request in such brilliant fashion. All these wonderful grants plus some fund-raising on our behalf meant we could buy some super instruments and we are really grateful."

The 4th section brass band were formed in 1993 and have nearly 50 members, 30 of whom make up the main band and just over 15 in the training band that Mrs Mason runs.

The band rehearse twice a week at the Froxfield War Memorial Hall on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30pm. Beginners and junior players have practice and lessons on Saturday mornings from 9.30am.

Mrs Mason added that the Marlborough Accordion Orchestra's new 'Beginners ' Group gets underway on February 6 and like the brass band it is under the leadership of Musical Director, David Watson.

For more information call 01672 512634.