*
banner

Co-op report huge losses

Co-operative Band Crewe announce huge losses — and they are over the moon about it too.

Crewe
 

The Co-operative Band Crewe is losing players at a rate of knots – and it is news that a dozen members of the band are delighted about!

Losing pounds

A New Years resolution to shed 15 stone in weight, and be fitter, not fatter, by the time the band competed in the North West Area contest in Blackpool at the end of February has seen the 12 slimmers raise funds but lose pounds in the process.

’Weigh-In’ takes place in the bandroom every Wednesday evening before practice with flugel player Sarah Sparkes, keeping track of how the group are progressing.

Trying hard

Sarah told 4BR: "The slimmers are all trying really hard, and this week they’ve been especially pleased to still lose a total of 2 stone, despite all of us attending, and enjoying, the band’s annual dinner!"

She added: "It’s really been the motivation some players needed to do this together, and we share hints and tips, too. Nobody has to know anyone else’s weight. I just keep the records confidentially and announce the difference each week. People can sponsor our slimmers if they wish, too."

25 days into their healthier regime, the group have already shed an amazing 8st 11.5lbs4BR

Shed

25 days into their healthier regime, the group have already shed an amazing 8st 11.5lbs.

And despite expecting their weight loss to slow down now, all 12 have stated their desire to carry on to hit their target – and fit into new band uniforms!

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Bedworth

Midlands Area confirm 2027 judges

November 2 • The adjudication teams for the 2027 Midlands Regional Championships have been announced.


Marsden

Marsden able to continue to honour lost lives

November 1 • Marsden Silver Prize Band's historic bass drum has been restored from flood damage to ensure the sacrifice of those lost in conflict is never forgotten,


Eikanger

Eikanger continues link with youth

November 1 • The Siddis champion has been continuing its inspirational links with youth bands and organisations in its Bergen region.


Cornelian Parker

Perpetual Canon seen but not heard in Wellington

November 1 • Cornelia Parker's celebrated art installation is currently on display in New Zealand.


Dobcross Silver Band - Remembrance Concert

Sunday 8 November • Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross. Oldham OL3 5AD


Regent Hall Concerts - Band of the RAF Regiment Brass Ensemble

Friday 20 November • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Bilton Silver President's Concert

Friday 27 November • St George's Church, St Johns Avenue, Rugby CV22 5HR


West Yorkshire Police Band - Mid Yorkshire Breast Cancer Support

Saturday 28 November • Cluntergate Centre, Horbury WF4 5DA


Newstead Brass - The Snowman - Live

Saturday 5 December • Forest Town Arena. Clipstone Road West, Forest Town. Mansfield NG19 0EE


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

November 2 • Under the leadership of Musical Director, Jack Fisher, the band requires a percussionist. With an expanding schedule of events, including our sell-out themed concerts, the band is based in our own, purpose built, band hall in Bilton.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

November 2 • Under the leadership of Musical Director, Jack Fisher, the band requires an Eb bass player. With an expanding schedule of events, including our sell-out themed concerts, the band is based in our own, purpose built, band hall in Bilton.


Cambrian Brass

November 1 • We are always happy to hear from anyone interested in joining our friendly, supportive band, whether you are returning to banding, looking for a new challenge, or have moved to Aberystwyth for university.


Julian Bright


Conductor, Compere/MC, Cornet Soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd