The Co-operative Band Crewe has been given a new name.

With immediate effect they will now be called, The Co-operative Funeralcare Band North West, after the UK’s largest funeral director struck a sponsorship deal with the well-known Crewe based band.

Co-op sponsorship

The band had been sponsored for the last 54 years by the Co-operative Movement.

George Tinning, Managing Director of The Co-operative Funeralcare, told 4BR: "Music is synonymous with funerals. The type of music played at a funeral captures the individuality of the person, so to sponsor such a well-established band is a perfect fit."

Delighted

Musical Director Jef Sparkes added: "We are delighted that The Co-operative Funeralcare has agreed to sponsor us. It enables us to remain true to our Co-operative roots."