Young musicians were treated to a surprise tour of Number 10 Downing Street as part of their 60th anniversary.

The Royal British Legion Band and Corps of Drums Romford visited the Prime Minister’s official residence earlier this month.

Band director, Ian Yeoman said: “It was fantastic.

“When I was growing we use to be able to walk on the opposite side of Downing Street, but now things have changed because of security so for many of the kids it was their first and only chance to get so close.”

The visit was organised by Romford MP Andrew Rosindell and saw the teenagers being given a guided tour by David Cameron’s secretary.

The musicians were also given a tour of the Houses of Parliament, before being treated to a meal and reception at a London restaurant.

Ian said: “The teenagers knew that they would be going to the Houses of Parliament, but had no idea that they were going to 10 Downing Street.

“It was a brilliant surprise and they really enjoyed the day.”

On Thursday May 10, the musicians were invited to a tour of Havering Town Hall by Havering Mayor Cllr Melvin Wallace.

Both events were organised to mark the band’s 60th anniversary in October.

They are appealing for former members of the band for a special reunion later in the year.

Ian said: “In this day and age there are not many youth groups that can last 60 years and we are still going strong after all these years.

“It is an amazing year because it is the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics and it is also a good year for us.”