WARRINGTON'S own community band was celebrating after claiming a top award in a national band event recently.

Appleton based North Cheshire Concert Band picked up the gold award at Great Sankey High School in a competition organised by the British Association of Symphonic Bands and Wind Ensembles.

It is the fourth year the band has taken part in the event, but the first time they have claimed the top accolade.

Celebrations for the band will run throughout the festive season as they

perform throughout Warrington.

This Saturday they will perform at Wycliffe Church Hall on Bewsey Street.

The programme will include local band Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats performing some popular swing classics, as well as carol singing.

The award-winners will also appear at the Golden Square shopping centre on Saturday, December 21.

Tickets for this Saturday's event are priced £5and are still available from 01925 261802.