Bradford's brass band heritage has helped it score a rare treat - a visit from royalty.

For the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines is visiting the city on Saturday - one of only three stops on a short tour.

The band were given the 'royal' status by HM Queen Elizabeth II after she realised the majority had served on the former Royal Yacht Britannia.

For one night only, the Royal Band will leave its Portsmouth base to play at St George's Hall.

The band's director of music Major John Perkins will play a violin solo and perform The Ashokan Farewell.

Major Perkins said: "We have quite a following through our recordings and public appearances. And the brass and big band sound is gaining in popularity among young people.

"West Yorkshire has a great brass band tradition and it is wonderful to be able to play this one-night stand in Bradford.

"We don't normally do tours, so it is a rare opportunity for people to see us."

Bernard Hinchcliffe, who has organised Saturday's event, says it is a real coup for the city.

"They are by far the best marine band in the country and a real treat to watch and listen to," he said.

"The Queen made them the Royal Band after most of them were on Her Majesty's Royal Yacht Britannia."

The Bradford date will be the band's only visit to West Yorkshire during a mini tour of England.

Mr Hinchcliffe said: "This is a unique performance and is very unusual for a military band. It's something not to be missed."

The 40 musicians will play a varied programme covering a range of popular marches, sea songs, TV and film music.

The integral Corps of Drums and Bugles will also perform a number of special marching displays.

The band has performed at a variety of prestigious events, including Sir Winston Churchill's state funeral in 1965.

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