IMAGINE a Christmas version of Last Night of the Proms and you would not be far from encapsulating this wonderful offering from Halifax Concert Band.

Their annual Christmas concert is becoming a tradition in Halifax. And they have built up a dedicated following, judging by the fact they were sold out on the wettest of nights and the rapturous applause that greeted every item.

Almost 50 strong and with members aged from 17 to 70, they truly are a most accomplished group of musicians.

They are superbly led by Christopher Binns, who revealed himself to be much more than conductor, musical director and composer – but also a compère beyond compare, a comedian and, not least, a jolly good sport.

In a varied programme of yuletide favourites, carols and traditional pieces, one item, the Rhapsody for Euphonium and Concert Band, was conspicuous for its unseasonal sonority, beautifully captured by Mark Holroyd on that most subtly mellow of instruments.

Christopher Binns was inspired to write it while walking on the beach, listening to the sea.

Christmas would not be complete without Leroy Anderson's Sleigh Ride, or Irving Berlin's White Christmas, immortalised by Bing Crosby.

The audience sang merrily along to both pieces and raised the roof with the carols.

A novelty item, The Muppet Show Theme,featuring a drum solo of Eric Delaney proportions by Karl Bolland, brought the biggest cheer on a heart-warming night.