BARNSLEY Metropolitan Band will put on a special reunion show as part of their 50th anniversary celebrations - as they bring back members new and old.

The band will be hosting the show on July 17 at Elsecar Park from 7pm and will feature a return of former musical director John Grinnell who will conduct a few pieces.

Old players are also being invited, as the band hopes to celebrate each part of their entire history.

Alex Francis, the current musical director for the band, said: “We’d like to thank everyone that has contributed to successfully making it to a half century.

“The band is now looking forward to the future and evolving with the modern world, while embracing our rich heritage.”

On the day, the band will be raising funds to be split between local Alzheimer’s charity BIADS and funding their trip to Cheltenham for the National Brass Band Championships later this year.

Recently, the band has found success on the contest stage, qualifying for the national finals four times in the last five years and being crowned Yorkshire 3rd Section Champions earlier this year.

Matt O’Neill, executive director for growth and sustainability for Barnsley Council, said: “It’s wonderful to hear some of the history of the band and how their passion and commitment has enabled them to enjoy successes of today.

“In Barnsley, we believe that developing the skills, talent and creativity within people of all ages opens exciting prospects.

“It’s fantastic to hear that so many people are benefiting from opportunities to achieve that together.”