PEOPLE who play an instrument and are free on Monday nights are needed by The Band of West Mercia Police.


The band is looking to recruit new musicians to its ranks.

Formed in 1988, the band plays throughout the year, taking music into the community and raising money for local charities.

Over the last couple of decades, the band has raised nearly £500,000 for worthy causes and has also had some success on the contest stage, twice qualifying for the national finals and winning prizes at the Wychavon Festival of Brass in 2011 for best local band.

All members are volunteers and are made up of serving police officers, police staff and members of the community.

Rehearsals are at West Mercia Police HQ, Hindlip Park, every Monday evening from 7.30-9.30pm.

Band chairman PC Richard Waterhouse, a Redditch local policing officer, said: "The band is looking to bolster it ranks with a view to progressing to a higher level.

"We are currently sitting in the third section but would love to advance into the second so are seeking players who can play to that level, especially as we are approaching our 25th anniversary in 2013.

"In particular, we are looking for Bb bass and bass trombone players and also, a kit percussionist.

"Next year will be a busy one and we are already booked for many concerts. We are a friendly bunch and I hope people wouldn't be put off from coming along because they think we are all scary police officers.”

For more details, call PC Waterhouse on 07771 618654 or e-mail richard.waterhouse@westmercia.pnn.police.uk.