The Leyland Band has now become a Registered Charity (no 1129485).

Tax breaks

The move consolidates the financial status of the band allowing the use of tax breaks available.

Development Officer, Andrew Blackledge told 4BR: "This is a major milestone on our business plan to ensure the band not only survives but prospers for future generations. Our supporters will be pleased to know that charitable donations may be increased by gift aid."

Andrew added: "Charitable status will also raise the visible profile of the band ensuring a stable platform for investigating further funding and partnering opportunities."

Charitable status will also raise the visible profile of the band ensuring a stable platform for investigating further funding and partnering opportunitiesAndrew Blackledge

New initiative

Meanwhile, at the first concert in the Leyland Band Matinee series an appeal was made for practical assistance in publicising the events.

Romance in Brass

'Romance in Brass', the first of the bands matinee themed concerts was a great success kicking off this new initiative, but the band realised that extra help was needed to meet the deamnd for tickets for future events.

A meeting was set up and the band was amazed at the response. From this initial meeting the 'Leyland 2009' support committee has been formed, and the help made the second concert — 'Stage and Screen Hits' a huge success.

Significant profit

Andrew confirmed this to 4BR: "I can't thank our volunteers enough. The second series concert was a major success generating a significant profit for band funds and this formula will now roll out for the remaining concerts of what will become an annual series. Many of our volunteers first heard Leyland band 50 to 60 years ago and to have this level of support from people who really care about our future is heart warming."