Jenny Gilberg, musical director, receiving a cheque for £3,350 from Chris Boak, from Freemasons of Northumberland, with guest tutor Leroy Clarke and players from the orchestra.

An organisation formed to support steel pan activities has been recognised as an educational charity.

Northern Steel Network achieved the recognition by the Charity Commission, and has followed that up with funding from the Readman Family Grassroots Fund and the Freemasons of Northumberland.

Jenny Gilberg, musical director, said: “We are very grateful for the support we have received, which will allow us to run a full schedule of steel pan rehearsals and workshops.”

Its Northern Steel Orchestra has more than 40 players from bands in Ashington, Cramlington, Morpeth, and Newbiggin.

The orchestra enjoyed stunning success in London last summer by winning UK Junior Panorama 2015, the first time ever a group from outside London had won.

Band Captain Kieran Finney said: “The players put everything into that performance and were thrilled to win. They’re really looking forward to taking part again this year.”

For further information contact Jenny Gilberg via [email protected]