A BLACKBURN community band is hoping to secure a place in the record books - by playing 30 gigs in 12 hours.

Blowjangles, a 12-strong percussion group formed in 1997, will fly out to Dublin for the challenge on Saturday, August 28.

They hope to smash the current record of 25 gigs in 12 hours.

The band who performed at Arts in the Park, Blackburn's Mela, the opening of the M65 and the Darwen Music Festival hope to use the event to raise cash for the Temple Street Children's Hospital, Dublin.

They have practised non-stop for the gruelling task and have devised the motto "Have silly costume - will travel" for the occasion.

Reidy's Home of Music, in Blackburn, has provided sponsorship for the trip.

Bernard West, who plays saxophone in the band, said: "There are 16 of us flying out and we are all really excited, although organising it has been really stressful.

"We are on a tight schedule as the rules state we must play for 15 minutes in each venue before moving on, which won't give us any time to enjoy the Guinness."

The first gig is at 11.30am in the Lagoona Bar. At 4pm the players who will be dressed in either yellow or red zoot suits, will take a food and drink break before finishing at 10pm in TP Smiths.

Hospital officials have been given permits to collect money as the band plays and will also act as witnesses to check that the World Record attempt is completed within the rules.

The band is on the lookout for a new drummer and other musicians. Visit www.blowjangles.co.uk for more details.