*
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    


Herbert

Brass bands on the Telegraph lines

August 31 • The Daily Telegraph's review of Prof Trevor Herbert's new book on brass bands draws a positive future outlook from critic Ivan Hewett.


Insurance

T&R Direct Insurance Services: A guide to brass band insurance

August 31 • Loads of things all bands and players need to know about protecting instruments


Wobplay

Banding classics added to Wobplay

August 31 • A great trio of classic banding releases, a new podcast episode and the chance to look back at this year's Elgar International Festival.


Camborne

Camborne Brass look to raise funds after break-in vandalism

August 31 • A Crowdfunding page has been launched to help Camborne Brass after vandals broke into their bandhall and caused extensive damage.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


CROFTON SILVER BAND

August 30 • CROFTON SILVER BAND - FIRST SECTION YORKSHIRE BAND. We are seeking a MD to lead a welcoming, ambitious, fun-loving group, passionate about making fantastic music and enjoying the journey together. . Rehearsals Monday & Thursday 8-10pm Fitzwilliam, Wakefield


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

August 29 • Our inclusive non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has vacancies for: . . Solo Cornet. Soprano Cornet. 2/3 Cornet. .


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

August 29 • Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!


Sam Fisher

BA (Hons), PGCE, Dip.ABRSM
Conductor, Adjudicator (AoBBA), Composer/Arranger, Cornet & Flugelhorn Soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd