UPTON Youth Band has been named European Show Band Champion after a successful weekend in Somerset.

The band was top in the intermediate category of the competition in Midsomer Norton last Sunday, also winning the best wind trophy and taking second in drill and deportment. The result follows wins at the previous two British Youth Band Association meetings in Colchester and Bilston.

The newly-formed cadet band also scored well, picking up a gold BYBA medal and a silver award in the European Championships.

Band spokesman Nicki Taha said the success was due to the youngsters' hard work and dedication and thanked Upton residents for their support and tolerance during rehearsals.