New recruits needed to keep brass band alive

ONE of the district s most popular brass bands is under threat and may have to stop performing because of a lack of musicians. The Wicken Coronation Band, formed in 1911 to celebrate the accession of George V, has become a focal point for the village, bu

ONE of the district's most popular brass bands is under threat and may have to stop performing because of a lack of musicians.

The Wicken Coronation Band, formed in 1911 to celebrate the accession of George V, has become a focal point for the village, but the band must recruit new members if it is to continue.

Chairman George Peacock said: "Although the players range from eight to 80-plus years of age, the band is predominantly very young and will lose several of these members to colleges and universities as they further their education.

"Work commitments will also see the loss of other experienced members, including the current band-master, leaving a nucleus of only around 10 or 12 players."

Mr Peacock said it would be a "tragedy" if the band ceased to exist and said he warmly welcomes interest from potential members.

He said experience would be useful but not essential and that membership is free.

"For a village the size of Wicken to maintain and support a band for almost 100 years is certainly an achievement - with your help the band may see its centenary," he said.

INFO: For more information about membership, contact Mr Peacock on 01353 723804 or president Laurence Finlayson on 01353 721863.