Malmesbury Concert Band celebrated its 160th anniversary with a triumphant concert in Malmesbury Abbey.

In front of a packed house, the band played an imaginative and wide-ranging programme, which included popular, classical, big-band and jazz music last Saturday, October 12.

The concert also featured Salon Baroque, a group of three professional performers, whose programme featured songs and readings from well-known composers and writers.

A further and equally popular contribution was provided by the 24-strong Abbey Choir, led by its organist and conductor, John Hughes.

The concert built up to a dazzling finale with Elgar’s Land of Hope & Glory and Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, complete with audience support in the form of exploding paper bags to replicate the traditional pyrotechnics.

Malmesbury mayor Julie Exton said: “What a wonderful evening, which definitely ‘Made Malmesbury Better."

Malmesbury Concert Band chairman Ben Randell-Sly added: “It was a fantastic night. We are so grateful for the support of the large audience, Salon Baroque, the Abbey Choir, our generous sponsors, and everyone who made it such a success.

"We truly celebrated our 160th anniversary in style.”