The Leyland Band has announced that their 'Community Action Programme' has gained funding by the 'Awards for All' Big Lottery Fund.

Workshops

The workshops will target three distinct community groups within the local South Ribble Borough, including a local band development day, a youth workshop and a seniors day incorporating less able bodied individuals specifically aimed at developing the interests and involvement of the band's supporters and patrons.

Initiative

Development Officer Andrew Blackledge told 4BR: "For many years the band rehearsed outside the locality making community initiatives difficult to implement. Over the last three years the band has firmly re-established its presence in Leyland and South Ribble."

He added: "By reaching out to different sectors of the community we want to build lasting relationships with local bands, local schools and encourage supporters who would normally have little access ‘behind the scenes’."

This is an excellent opportunity for us to invite a wide cross section of the community to learn with us and experience the 'brass band buzz'Chairman, Allan Littlemore

Innovative

Andrew hopes the initiative will prove innovative and successful too: "We are affirming our commitment to innovation by dedicating a session to participants from the Galloway’s Society for the Blind. With a mix of music and mirth the band is looking forward to working once again with Richard Evans whilst also extending a warm welcome to guest Philip Harper."

Excellent opportunity

Band Chairman Allan Littlemore added: "The future of Leyland Band will be largely dependent on developing partnering initiatives within our local community. This is an excellent opportunity for us to invite a wide cross section of the community to learn with us and experience the ‘brass band buzz’."