DALKEITH and Monktonhall Brass Band are celebrating after taking a podium place at the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain, held in Cheltenham on Saturday.

The Prestonpans-based band came third with their performance of Music of a Legacy, by Salvation Army composer Steven Ponsford, at the prestigious awards.

They were conducted by Jim Chamberlain and were congratulated by the composer himself for their “masterful” performance.

Musical director Mr Chamberlain said the band were delighted to beat the competition to take a top three position – rarely won by a band from north of the Border.

He said: “To take on the top 18 bands from across Britain and to bring silverware home is a great achievement, and probably the highest accolade that the band has ever gained in it’s existence.

“It’s a reflection on the hard work of the players and our supporters and is very well deserved”.

The band rehearses twice weekly in Castlepark Bowling Club, Prestonpans.

During the contest preparations over many weeks, the band received help and support from Prestonpans British Legion, Prestonpans Labour Club and East Lothian Council for rehearsal facilities to prepare the band for the hall acoustics at ‘the Nationals’.

A financial donation from EDF at Torness Power Station and a huge fundraising push by the players all helped to make the win happen.

The band thanked everyone who helped in the preparations, and their sponsors Cathcart Associates and Prentice Coaches for their support and encouragement.