Royal Marines band to visit again

The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, one of the world's most famous and accomplished military bands, will be in Malta this week to play in high-profile functions and public events.

The visit was sponsored by HSBC Malta, which are supporting a number of other activities connected with the Commonwealth summit.

The Royal Marines' band can trace its origin to 1767. Its principal role is to provide musical support for military parades, mess functions, troops on overseas deployment as well as charity and sporting events. The band accompanies the Royal Family on foreign trips and supports trade delegations.

It also has a military role and has seen active service in almost every operation undertaken by the Royal Marines since the First World War, including the conflicts in the Falklands, the Gulf, Kosovo and Iraq.

Capt. Pete Curtis, director of music of the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Commando Training Centre, said: "Our forthcoming visit to Malta is by no means our first. The band of the Royal Marines has a long and happy association with Malta and all the members are looking forward to coming over for what should be a very hectic but enjoyable few days.

"HSBC previously supported us on our last trip during Princess Anne's visit last year and we are very grateful for their renewed support," he said.