NASUWT Riverside Band has received a financial boost ahead of its Grand Shield challenge in Blackpool in May.

The band is looking to return to the British Open for the first time since 2022 as well as make a fourth consecutive return trip to the Royal Albert Hall National Final in October, helped by extra funding provided by solo horn player Michael Duncan.

The owner of MD Auto Services has made a substantial donation to the band to further develop and secure its future.

Generous help

Speaking about the generous help, Band Manager Tony Thompson told 4BR: "This is incredible gesture by Michael which will be a great boost to our future ambitions.

We are all aware that brass bands at all levels are struggling to survive in these difficult times, so this support will help us greatly."

Gratitude

In response, Michael himself added: "I'm really pleased to be in a position where I can invest in the future of a band I have played in for 43 years. I felt it was time for me to repay the debt of gratitude for all the time, effort, support and pleasure they have given me.

The band is very special to me, and the players are part of my extended family. I look forward to being part of its future success."