A BAND which has won plaudits for its performances across the UK and abroad, will be playing a central role in the town’s remembrance commemorations.

The Lancashire Artillery (Volunteers) Band has performed on international tours and played in front of the royal family.

It is now preparing to lead the Mayor of Bolton’s charity remembrance concert at the Albert Halls tomorrow, and is hoping to see a packed house for their long-awaited home town return.

Warrant Officer, Matthew Speight, said: “As an Army Reserve Band garrisoned in Bolton, the opportunity to perform at the concert is a true privilege.

“The band is often tasked on events nationwide including parades, military funerals and other commemorative events.

“This means that performing in our home town has become somewhat of a rarity. Therefore this event is an opportunity to perform to our closest supporters and one that the band members are greatly looking forward to.”

As part of 103 Regiment Royal Artillery, the Lancashire Artillery (Volunteers) band features musicians from the local area. Among the ranks are teachers, students, accountants, a postman and a nurse.

WO Speight added: “The band is comprised of serving reserve soldiers, of which many have recent operation experience in Afghanistan and Iraq. With that in mind, remembrance is very real and modern in every sense to our soldiers who are extremely proud to be participating in the concert.”

This year’s remembrance concert will be held at the Albert Halls on Saturday, at 7.15pm.

Tickets, priced at £6.50, can be bought on the door or from quaytickets.com. Proceeds will go to veteran and cadet charities. WO Speight said: “The concert promises to be entertaining, with a chance for a ‘sing a long’ and, most importantly for Bolton, the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by its citizens in all conflicts.”

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Elaine Sherrington, said: “We are rightly proud to have such a well-known band based here in Bolton and Saturday night will be a chance to see them at their very best. Not only will it be an unforgettable evening of music, but all proceeds will go directly to charities.”