A POPULAR brass band has changed its name after severing ties with the Royal British Legion.

After 21 years of being known as the Harwich Royal British Legion Brass Band, the group will now go by the name of Tendring Brass Band following changes in legion policies, which the group believe would have had a significant impact on them.

Musical director Antony Sanders said: “As a band with our roots and history in Harwich, we have always had many members from across the Tendring area and further afield.

“With our new name and identity, we believe we will be able to forge even stronger links right across the Tendring peninsula and beyond, welcoming new players and performing at more venues and events.”

Chairman and treasurer Brian Harmer added: “This marks a new chapter in the band’s long and successful history.

“As an independent band, we can look forward to having more flexibility both in terms of our own funding, sponsorship and future sustainability, but also the charities and good causes which we can support.”

Much of the brass band’s traditions will remain the same, including the familiar blue concert jackets.