THERE was a really relaxed and friendly atmosphere on Friday night, not least because of the band's musical director, Captain RW Hopla, who introduced the items with jokes and quips, often taking the rise out of his talented musicians.

There was even a contest between the trumpeters, to see who could best play the "horse" for Leroy Anderson's Sleigh Ride.

The programme began with Dambusters March, though I doubt anyone could march at that speed - run possibly!

We heard items such as Songs of the British Isles and A Christmas Suite, which was a jazzed up version of We Three Kings, and the band created the "Big Band Sound" for a selection of Glenn Miller items, in which I particularly enjoyed Moonlight Serenade with Gary Chilton's clarinet solo.

A trio of trombonists walked around the audience while playing, and a xylophone was brought down into the auditorium for a duet.

Two soldiers began their spot on post-horns, and progressed to playing a teapot, a paddle, the handlebars of a tricycle, and the leg of a town hall chair!

Joining in the fun were the New Dimensional Choir, who were joined by members of several others choirs for the occasion.

Soloist Margaret Peters delighted with Tonight from West Side Story, and Amazing Grace, and they joined the band for a terrific "Gospel" section.

They were doing well in a superb arrangement of Battle Hymn of the Republic until the men got lost in their verse, and parts of Jesus Child were very ragged.

Altogether a great concert, and everyone enjoyed joining in the Christmas songs at the end. VJS