The Band septet playing carols in the Orangery at Painswick House. Photo by Peter Jones.

A septet from Chalford Band has helped to raise a staggering £2,407 for cancer treatment in Gloucestershire.

The seven played carols for two hours to entertain more than 700 visitors to the Magical Christmas Garden Tour at the Painswick Rococo Gardens on Sunday, December 7.

On their way to see Father Christmas and characters from the Cotswold Players' production of the Owl and the Pussycat on a trail through the magnificent gardens, the grown-ups and children enjoyed carols played by Kelly Evans, Chris Jones, Josie Smith and Emily Godwin (cornets), Bev Godwin (tenor horn), Ron Gardiner (trombone) and Shaun Jones (euphonium) in the Orangery.

It was just as well that only a small group was required because everyone else was having a joint rehearsal at the Bandroom for the following Sunday's Christmas concert at Stroud Subscription Rooms.

Afterwards the organisers sent the following letter to Bev, who arranged the group's visit.

"Dear Bev,

I am writing on behalf of the Cobalt Unit Appeal Fund to say a huge THANK YOU to you and the other members of the Chalford Silver band for playing carols to entertain the crowds at the Painswick Rococo Garden Christmas Event.

I am absolutely thrilled to be able to tell you that with your help the event made a staggering £2,407.65 profit for the Appeal. We had 703 visitors - a fantastic achievement, a lovely event with a magical atmosphere. The success was really down to the hard work of all involved, the Rococo Garden Trust and the generosity of the public. The band played wonderfully and really created that festive feel; we have received lots of very positive comments about the music. One of the comments was from a lady who said she heard these super carols and was amazed to see such young people playing so well!

As you know, the charity supports the local health authority with additional prevention, detection and treatment facilities for cancer patients in Gloucestershire. Our work would not continue without the support of people such as you who are willing to get involved.

Thank you once again and very best wishes for Christmas.

Karen Davies (Fundraising Co-ordinator) "