YOUNG musicians performed alongside one of the country’s leading bands.

Foden’s Band made a guest appearance at Little Lever’s annual concert which attracted a capacity crowd of more than 250 people, and say organisers left the audience ‘dazzled by the sheer talent on show throughout the evening’.

Little Lever School bands took to the stage during the first half of the evening. They included the Jazz Band, Wind Band, Drum Group, Vocal Group and the newly formed rock band Urban Jungle.

Highlights the solo contributions from pupils Joel Wolstencroft and Drew Gudojc. Special guests St Matthew’s CE Primary School Brass Band also took the stage to entertain.

Foden’s Band made their guest appearance in the second half.

This was the latest appearance by the world famous band — the origins of which can be traced back to 1900 —which performs regularly at Little Lever School. A spokesman for the school said: “The band was once again on top form, and soloists that gave performances worthy of inspiring any budding musician, young or old.”

Foden’s Band was BBC Band of the Year in 1990 and 1992 and European Champions in 1992, French Open Champions in 1998 along with becoming All England Masters Champions in 1990, 1991, 1994 and 1995.

Ward councillor Sean Hornby said: “Foden’s Band have played at Little Lever School a number of times and the band is always a huge hit with the audience.

“It is great to have a band of that calibre, the musicians are world class, performing in Little Lever. Brass band music is a Lancashire tradition but more than that it gives children an opportunity to experience live music and something different from what they are used to and inspire them.”

Cllr Hornby, who is a former governor at the school and is in regular contact with staff, added: “I have seen Foden’s Band perform in school and they are very good, although I was unable to attend this concert, I am looking forward to seeing the band at school next time they perform.”