THE famous Wingates Band will be heading across the Channel to defend its title in the French Open Brass Band Championships next month.

The Westhoughton musicians have accepted an invitation from the French organisers of the British-style competition.

Last year the band came home with tops honours.

The championships are now in their 12th year and are held in the Loire Valley town of Amboise, a major centre of brass music in France.

Entry to the French Open is by invitation only and Wingates will be up against bands from France, Switzerland, Belgium and Holland, as well as English and Welsh bands in the competition held over the weekend of June 9 and 10.

Wingates, founded in 1873, has a string of titles, having been British Open champions seven times and British National champions on four occasions as well as having won numerous regional contests.

The band will be playing on home soil with The Houghton Weavers at Rivington Barn on Wednesday, May 30.

Tickets, costing £8 all classes, are available from Rivington Barn or by post from the band's president and PR manager, David Kaye, on 01942 845001 or 07970 131460.