SHOPPERS were serenaded by the seasonal sounds of brass in Oldham town centre last weekend.

Ranked world number one, The Cory Band, from South Wales, were among the special guests invited to play at the Brass Monkeys festival, bringing with them scores of songs from their repertoire as current national and European champions.

There were also performances from a host of homegrown talent including Oldham Music Service, Boarshurst Brass Band, Dobcross Brass Monkeys and Tame Valley Brass who delighted the crowds with Christmas tunes and traditional favourites.

Bands were located in Parliament Square, Oldham Parish Church and High Street.

Back Chat Brass and Global Grooves Brass brought their own style of festive funkiness and there was a special collaboration from Bollywood Brass Band and the Middleton Youth Band.

Oldham Play Action Group was on hand to keep youngsters entertained with art and craft activities.

Brass Monkey's is now a much anticipated annual event celebrating the town's historic bond with brass.