A YOUTH band is looking forward to a dream trip to Belgium and France after smashing the world record for the longest brass band rehearsal.

Some 50 youngsters of Dobcross Youth Band blew their trumpets, trombones and cornets for more than 24 hours from 12.30pm on Good Friday until Easter Saturday to beat the current Guinness World Record.

The attempt which was watched live across the globe – including locations as far away as the USA, Africa, the Far East and New Zealand - on the band’s live Facebook feed, raised more than £3,000.

That exceeds the original target of £2,000 which was set to fund the band’s trip to perform at the Menin Gate war memorial in Belgium at a remembrance service.

The youngsters, aged between eight and 18 will also visit Disneyland in Paris.

Secretary of the band Jenny Wood said: “The band traditionally performs on Good Friday, but one of the parents came up with the idea when the idea of the trip was put forward.

“The fundraising was boosted by our JustGiving page, and it was great for the band to get recognition for their efforts thanks to the Facebook webcast.

“The band got a lot of help from ex-members who came back to help and we also have training band which boosted the numbers.

"There were complaints about exhaustion. They love rehearsing and performing and now the band has got a fantastic trip to look forward to.

"Playing at the Menin Gate at the remembrance service will be an honour for the band."

This year marks the 30th years since the launch of the youth band.