BURGH musicians of all levels and abilities are being invited to join the ranks of the HMS Neptune Volunteer Band, who are on the lookout for new members.

Neptune musicians, members of Scotland’s only volunteer band, operate from Scotland’s largest military establishment, HM Naval Base Clyde.

Band Sergeant AJ Hardy, said: “Many people will be familiar with HMS Neptune Volunteer Band after seeing us perform at a number of events in the local area.

“There’s sometimes the misconception that it’s only open to military personnel or those who work at HM Naval Base Clyde, but in actual fact it’s truly a community band.

“I’d like to invite anyone in the Helensburgh or Lomond area who can play an instrument to get in touch. It’s a great opportunity to meet some new friends, hone your musical skills and get out and about to perform at concerts and events.”

The volunteer band currently has around 40 members who range in age from 14 to 80. The band is in popular demand and the musicians play at dozens of events each year, most recently at Helensburgh’s Hermitage Park Remembrance event and the Winter Festival on November 26.

Led by Royal Marines Band Sergeant Hardy, who trained at the prestigious Royal Marines School of Music in Portsmouth, the Neptune Volunteers meet each week for rehearsals. The big band gathers on a Monday evening from 7pm to 9pm, while the Wind Band meets each Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Band Sergeant Hardy, said: “We have several events coming up in the area and there’s also the opportunity to travel further afield.

“Once a year we compete at the Royal Naval Volunteer Band Festival in Portsmouth with the eight other volunteer bands and a few of us have also travelled to Germany.”

For more information on HMS Neptune Volunteer Band contact Band Sergeant AJ Hardy on 01436 674321 extension 6681or email NAVYNBCC-NEPTUNEBAND MASTER@mod.uk.