Helen Minshall, who started the highly successful Astley Youth Band over 20 years ago, has just launched her latest project (above) — a brass band for day time players.

Aim

Helen told 4BR: "We very often get adult players coming along at Astley and asking to join.

Some of these adults have time to spare during the day, so a few months ago my husband and I came up with the idea of starting a daytime adult band, aimed at anyone who has free time on their hands.

We want to help the retired, unemployed, single parents, young rehabilitated offenders trying to get back into society — anyone at all really, regardless of whether they have previous experience of playing an instrument."

Simple idea

Helen added: "We don't live in a 9-5 society anymore and in particular older people and those with disabilities and mobility problems want interesting, challenging daytime activities. That's the simple idea."

The band will be run by Helen and her daughter Samantha — both with loads of highly respected brass band experience, and the band recently got off to a great start on their launch.

We want to help the retired, unemployed, single parents, young rehabilitated offenders trying to get back into society — anyone at all really, regardless of whether they have previous experience of playing an instrumentHelen Minshall

Funding

Helen concluded: "A few months ago we applied to the 'Deal for the Communities' for funding to start the adult band, 'Brass Unlimited'.

We were awarded £2,500 to help us get going, and we have also been given three months free use of a rehearsal facility in Leigh.

It's a great way to get things up and running — and to get more people enjoying playing a brass band instrument!"

Get involved:

Mondays, 12.00 noon -1.00pm at the Derby Room, Leigh Library.