The Longridge Band will be celebrating its 180th anniversary this year with the commissioning of a new brass band — one that could also embraces the fact that the band is even older than it originally thought.

Research in local records has shown that the Preston Chronicle newspaper referred to a performance given by the band some 13 years prior to what was thought to be its founding date in 1845.

1832 debut

The short news item stated that on Saturday 18th August 1832; "The Longridge Band were in attendance, playing a number of appropriate airs, which added to the gaiety and spirit of the company."

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Needless to say, this gave us a little bit of a problem. However, instead of cancelling everything and starting again we decided we will celebrate our 193rd Anniversary at Longridge Civic Hall on Saturday 12th July instead."

New work

As part of their celebrations, the band has commissioned composer Dan Price to arrange 'A Gaelic Lullaby', from Ernest Tomlinson's 'Three Gaelic Sketches', which will be given its world premiere at the 180th/193rd Anniversary concert.

Tomlinson MBE (1924-2015) was a resident of Longridge and a proud patron of the band. He also allowed the band to rehearse and record in his music studio, conducted the band on occasions and gave his consent to adopt the march 'Best Foot Forward' as its signature tune.

However, instead of cancelling everything and starting again we decided we will celebrate our 193rd Anniversary at Longridge Civic Hall on Saturday 12th July insteadLongridge Band

Made available

The spokesperson added: "With the Tomlinson Family's permission, we commissioned Dan to write the arrangement.

In doing so, we felt that we also wanted to give other bands an opportunity to share in our special anniversary and make it possible for them to download this music for free to include in their concerts.

All we ask is that they give acknowledgement to the band and Ernest Tomlinson.

Further details

For further details go to the band's website at: www.longridgeband.org.uk and www.danpricemusic.com