AN AWARD-winning school brass band from Trowbridge are bidding to reach a national music festival in London for the fifth year running.

The John of Gaunt's brass band showcased its repertoire at a regional music festival, held at the Wingfield Road school on Saturday.

One of 59 regional festivals being held across the county for instrumentalists and singers aged between three and 21, the brass band were one of 14 entrants to showcase their talent in the Trowbridge event.

Organisers from charity Music for Youth will send out up to 300 invitations to groups later this month to perform at the National Festival for Youth, held at the Royal Festival Hall, London, in July.

John of Gaunt entered five groups in this year's regional festival including its wind band, low brass ensemble and trombone octet.

Music teacher Dr Mike Lomas said the school's brass band came in for particular praise.

"At least one person described us as awesome," he said.

"They did the school proud. The adjudicator called us a very fine group. I believe they must have a very good chance of qualifying. We have won awards on the last two occasions."