The Longridge Band recently stepped in at short notice to add a touch of brass to the prestigious Preston Guild Court Procession, which celebrates the historic body that allows merchants to trade in the area.

Invitation

The organisers had found themselves without a band for the event, but were saved when Longridge accepted the invitation to take part.

Band Manager Sue Newby told 4BR: "We were delighted to be asked and delighted to help. The ten day festival has been held once every 20 years since 1179 and is one of the most important cultural events in the North West region."

Jose Carreras

Thousands of people lined the streets as the colourful two mile procession wound its way round Preston city centre. This year’s event was headlined by world famous opera singer Jose Carreras and mezzo soprano Katherine Jenkins, who performed with the Manchester Camerata.

Longridge MD Mark Peacock set aside his conductor’s baton to join the cornet ranks for the day and told 4BR: "It was a wonderful occasion and the band put on a great performance. They were applauded all the way, especially as it was baking hot and the march lasted about two miles!"

It was a wonderful occasion and the band put on a great performance. They were applauded all the way, especially as it was baking hot and the march lasted about two milesMD, Mark Paecock

Great experience

The day also bought back fond memories for some of Longridge’s longer-serving members too, with a number having played in past events – although not as far back as 1179!

"For our younger players it was also great experience," Mark added. "

"The only problem is that we may have to wait another 20 years before we can do it again."