Rothwell Temperance Band has finalised plans for a seven day tour of Malta next April. However, they have also revealed to 4BR that the decision has taken priority over an appearance at this year's Brass in Concert Championship at The Sage Gateshead in November.

Pipeline

MD Dave Roberts told 4BR: "The tour has been in the pipeline for a couple of years, but details have now been finalised and hotels booked.

It's going to be fantastic as we have been invited by a local band that many of our players already know well It's a great opportunity and the band haven't been overseas for quite a while."

It's a great opportunity and the band haven't been overseas for quite a whileMD. Dave Roberts

Money tight

He added: "Things have moved very quickly with the flights and logistics and we need to pay a deposit. With money tight and the recent Grand Shield win meaning our return to the British Open in September we have decided to not attend this year's Brass in Concert Championship.

It would be nice to do everything, but the tour has to take priority on this occasion".