Bodmin Band has informed 4BR that they are determined to rise from the ashes left following an arson attack that has totally gutted their historic bandroom and left the band without instruments or music.

Horrible news

Conductor Graham Boag told 4BR: "This has been horrible news. The instruments can be replaced, but the loss of the band library and the memorabilia cannot."

Destroyed

It is understood that the fire took hold sometime either late Friday night or early Saturday morning, getting out of control and destroying the bandroom and its contents. Two people are helping the Police with their enquiries.

We are a very proud band with a very proud history and this will not beat usGraham Boag, Bodmin Band

Area appearance

Graham revealed that the band had been hoping to move forward in the coming months after going through a difficult period.

"We had real hopes of making it to the Area contest in Torquay in the Second Section next year as we have been making encouraging progress over the last few months. This couldn’t have come at a worse time."

Support

Graham has been heartened by the support the news has brought from other bands though.

"It’s been amazing. As soon as other local bands knew about our plight we have had offers of help. We are in desperate need of music and rehearsal facilities whilst new instruments will come we are sure. We are determined to rise from the ashes. We are a very proud band with a very proud history and this will not beat us."

If you can offer help to Bodmin please contact Graham on 07813 765199 or at grahamboag20816@aol.com