There were a few wet faces despite the sunny evening when Porthleven Town Band members performed their triumphant homecoming march last night, after being named National Champions.

The band travelled to Cheltenham at the weekend for the National Brass Band Championship of Great Britain.

And it seems their performance wowed the judges as much as it does the crowds every Sunday evening on the harbour during the summer, as Porthleven was named Third Section champions.

To celebrate, and as thank you to all their supporters back in the port, the band carried out a homecoming march on Thursday evening.

Parading through the village playing some of their best loved tunes, the band received cheers and applause for the entire route.

Speaking afterwards, the band said: “Thank you so much to everyone who came and cheered on our triumphant and emotional march through our village this evening.

“Porthleven Town Band - Third Section National Champions of Great Britain.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us, not just on our journey to Cheltenham, but through the years - in person and online. Your comments, kindness and generosity are appreciated beyond words, thank you.”

After marching from outside the Ship Inn, across the harbour head to the Harbour Inn, they continued to play for around 20 minutes before heading into their adopted home in the Harbour Inn, to toast their success with drinks.

Musical director of 11 years Tom Bassett said after they were named champions: “I am so proud of the band and the progress they have made over the past ten years. Such a special moment, becoming Champion Third Section band of Great Britain.

“The band has worked so hard over the past 12 months and I’m delighted that they have achieved the double of both area and national title. Here’s to the Second Section next year!”

Band chair Kristina Faulkner, who has been in the senior band for 22 years after coming up through the training band, was also full of praise for her fellow mmebres.

She said: “I am so immensely proud of Porthleven Town Band. I have the privilege of being a player and the chair too’ “Everyone has worked so hard, their commitment and dedication is what has led us to now being Third Section Champions of Great Britain. We also have the most supportive and loyal followers who we couldn't be without.

“Porthleven Town Band is a huge family that everyone is part of.”

The band is now preparing for its Last Night of the Proms event on Saturday next week, with tickets selling even faster after their championship win.

Taking place at Porthleven Methodist Chapel on Saturday, September 30, doors open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start, with the evening featuring guest soprano Karen Hurt and the vocal quarter Hit & Miss alongside the band.

Tickets cost £10 for adults, £5 for children and are available from the Just Lily shop in Porthleven, the bandroom between 7pm and 7.30pm on Monday, or by emailing porthleventownband@gmail.com with payment via Bacs. There may also be some tickets on the door, subject to availability.