THE West Yorkshire Police Band has been invited to play at a memorial ceremony at the First World War monument in Ypres, Belgium.

The annual ceremony at the Menin Gate will be on January 15.

The West Yorkshire band is believed to be the first police band from the United Kingdom to play at the event.

Thirteen fanfare trumpeters will take part in the Last Post Ceremony, playing Nimrod and Reveille.

The Last Post itself will be delivered by the Ypres Fire Service Buglers.

Since July, 1924, they have played it every evening at 8pm. The only exception was when Belgium was occupied during the Second World War.

As many as 40 police officers from West Yorkshire are thought to have fallen during the First World War.

They are commemorated at the Menin Gate, the cemetery at Tyne Cot and at Thiepval on the Somme.

Chief Constable Colin Cramphorn said: "It is a great privilege to be invited to play at Menin Gate.

"We are delighted to be involved in such an important service, remembering those who gave their lives for their country.

"It seems appropriate during the 30th anniversary of the West Yorkshire Police and the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Paschendale, that our band should honour the officers who served."

The band is made up of officers and staff from a variety of ranks and departments, in addition to civilians.

Pc Keith Williams, who plays with the band, said: "Being able to pay our respects by performing in Ypres is a unique and coveted opportunity."