Yiouth band's cash boost

From the Leigh Journal, first published Sunday 10th Sep 2006.

ASTLEY'S champion Youth Band has received a welcome brass boost.

It has won two financial awards which will go towards buying new instruments, pay for weekly rehearsal costs - and help with a new beginners' group.

The North West Counties champions have received a total of £7,500, £6,300 from the Local Area Network Fund, which will be used for instruments and training and £1,200 from the Wigan Council for Voluntary Youth Services, which will meet the cost of rehearsals at Bedford High School, instrument insurance and repairs Musical director, Helen Minshall, said: "This is fantastic news. We are now able to buy 21 new instruments, and will be starting a new beginner group this month.

"We are looking for children who may be interested in joining the band and we have instruments for them to use. We ask for a contribution of £15 every year towards the cost of insuring the instrument, and that is all.

"Players can borrow the instruments free of charge, and use them for school and lessons."

Rehearsals take place at Bedford High School on Thursday evenings, and the first rehearsal of the new term is today (Thursday). The Youth Band rehearses from 7pm - 9pm, and the Training Band from 6.30pm - 7.30pm.

The Youth Band, which caters for players of approximately Grade 3 standard and above, is full at the moment, apart from vacancies for a 3rd percussionist, and for tuba players.

The Training Band, however, is looking for new players and and youngsters interested will be welcome at Bedford High School with their parents at 6.30pm on any Thursday in September, where they can have a look and a listen to what the band is all about.

The Youth Band will be travelling to Fleetwood on October 1 to defend their North West Counties Youth title.

The players have recently returned from a very successful five day concert tour to the Isle of Man, where four concerts were given in Douglas and Port Erin and members linked up with the Manx Youth Band for a joint concert.

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