BRASS bands from across the country will be marching towards Rubery next month to take part in a prestigious competition.

The Rubery Youth Marching Band is hosting the annual marching band competition at Waseley Hills High School on June 8.

Fourteen youth bands from all over Britain will be flocking to the School Road school to have a pop at scooping the title. And there will also be the northern heats of the solo drum and bugle competition.

One of the band's managers Stephanie Cotterill said: "The first band will be in the arena at 11am and we plan to hold a grand muster at 4pm depending on the weather.

She added: "The band is in a very exciting time at the moment with many events to look forward to this year. We have a new management team, which includes myself, Jane Cotterill and John Young."

However, the band is seeking a grant of £300 from Bromsgrove District Council to help them with the cost of hiring out the venue. Last June the council granted funding of £200 for the same purpose.

The council's executive cabinet will discuss the matter at their meeting tonight (Wed).

The band, which was formed in 1983 and rehearses at Rubery Youth and Community Centre, is a self-funding charity organisation. They are holding their 20th Anniversary Concert at the Austin Road Sports and Social Club on October 25. For further details call Jane Cotterill on 0121 624 9224.