The famous name of the Mossley Band from Tameside in Greater Manchester will not be seen for generations to come thanks to a decision by the people who award the iconic culture 'Blue Plaques'.

An appplication was made by the current band to commemorate the Mossley Temperance Band, who won the first Belle Vue Contest in Manchester in 1853.

Greatest in the world

The band hoped that in an area where brass bands are still considered to be at the very heart of the community, one of the famous plaques would have given overdue reconition to a band that set in motion one of the greatest amateur music making events in the world.

Support

Support came from the likes of Richard Evans and Derek Broadbent, both of whom sent letters of support, but just a couple of weeks ago the band was informed that their application was unsuccesful.

An appplication was made by the current band to commemorate the Mossley Temperance Band, who won the first Belle Vue Contest in Manchester in 1853.

Not strog enough

A spokesperson told 4BR: "We were told that despite it being a split decision, the committee felt lots of people could claim to be the first at something and, although it was a lovely story, the application was not strong enough, unique enough or outstanding."