�Romford Drum and Trumpet Corps have scooped an international award after wowing judges at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin.

The youth band was the only one in Britain to be invited to the city’s traditional celebrations at the weekend.

Televised

It was the first time the band had attended the event, which saw groups from across the world, including Russia, Ireland and USA taking part.

More than 500,000 people watched the televised celebrations, including the Lord Mayor of Dublin and the Irish Prime Minister.

As part of the event, there is an annual band competition.

Romford’s bandmaster Paul Binder said: “Most of the bands competing, especially from America, had more than 200 members – swamping Romford Drum and Trumpet Corps almost four-fold in numbers.

“However, this didn’t stop Romford putting on a professional and entertaining performance – impressing judges so much that they picked up the coveted best overall band award.

“Romford triumphed due to their musical and marching skills and were clear winners by a unanimous decision from the international panel of judges.”

They were presented with their prize by the Lord Mayor later that day. Mr Binder added: “The Irish certainly know how to put on a party – lining the streets to celebrate this global holiday, painting the town green, covering the whole 2.5km route, waving flags and dressing to impress for the occasion.”