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More brass in pockets of top bands

6/ 3/2002

BANDS could earn themselves a bit of extra brass thanks to a new £5,000 sponsorship deal.

Council bosses have promised to set aside £5,000 for the next three years to help out three Tameside brass bands every year.

And the only requirement is that each of the bands winning the award will have to play two charity concerts.

Council leader, Cllr Roy Oldham said: "We are trying to help out the brass bands by offering them £5,000 worth of sponsorship. This will be for three bands per year for the next three years.

He added: "The only condition is that they play two concerts for charity - with proceeds from one going to the Macmillan Nurses and the other going towards Willow Wood."

A council spokeswoman added: "The support has been given as they (the bands) are an integral part of music making and are also part of our local heritage.

"They raise the profile of Tameside throughout the whole country and already our bands are competing at the highest level across the country."

She said the grant will be introduced from April as the new budget comes into effect. Although the details have not yet been finalised, it is expected all community-based bands will be eligible for a portion of the £5,000.

For information call the play and events team on 0161 342 3392.