SELKIRK Silver Band is staging a special summer concert in the marquee at Haining House on Sunday, August 19.

It will be the band’s final public appearance before it heads to Cheltenham for next month’s UK national brass band championships.

“It’s a very exciting time for our members,” said bandmaster Colin Kemp, “and naturally the band wants to do everyone in Selkirk proud when it plays at the national finals in September.

“We receive tremendous support from the local community throughout the year, and this month’s concert gives us the chance to show our appreciation for all the public’s help and encouragement.”

In recent weeks band members have been busy raising funds to enable them to make the trip to Cheltenham.

As well running a pop-up shop and hosting a stall at last month’s farmers’ market, a commemorative brochure has been produced charting the band’s 121-year history.

The Haining concert will comprise a wide-ranging musical programme. Included will be a special arrangement of “The Rowan Tree” featuring a tenor horn solo by Les Mallin, as well as excerpts from the musical “Oh What A Lovely War!”.

The concert will run from 2pm to 5pm, and as well as a licensed bar, members of the public will be able to purchase afternoon teas.

Tickets priced £7 (£5 conc.) are now on sale at McCudden’s Newsagents in Selkirk High Street, or can be purchased from any band member.