AMMANFORD shoppers and residents will have undoubtedly noticed an increased level of activity by the town’s silver band recently.

Ammanford Town Silver Band have had a bumper 2012 with a hectic Christmas schedule and being crowned the Third Section Champion Band of Wales.

“The last year or so has been a rollercoaster ride for us – we’ve only really got back going at a competitive level in the last 12 months or so and to win the accolades we have is immensely pleasing,” said musical director and conductor Glyn Davies.

“The standard of musicians at the band is now very high and we’ve got an exciting 2013 lined up as well.

“We’ve just announced our annual St Davids Day concert for this year and we’re delighted to welcome guest artistes the Persain choir and Saron School alongside us.”

The concert is to be held in Llandybie Memorial Hall on Friday, March 1. Shortly afterwards the band will be competing in the Welsh Championships at Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall.

The band, a registered charity, also recognise how fortunate they are to be part of such a music-loving community in Ammanford.

“Attendances are good and we have a strong junior section which rehearses 6.30- 7.30pm on a Tuesday night at the band room,” said Mr Davies.

Band chairman Paul Morris described local support as “overwhelming”.

He added: “At a time when money is tight for everyone it’s very humbling to see how generous people can be towards the band.”

● New and old players are welcome to come along for a rehearsal, instruments are also available – senior band is on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7:30, and the band room is located nextdoor to Lidl in Ammanford – band members can park in Lidl free of charge.