MEMBERS of one of East Lancashire's longest-established brass bands have told how the coronavirus pandemic has wrecked their year.

Blackburn and Darwen Brass Band is typical of many across the country which have been left still having to pay rent and expenses but with no source of income due to lockdown.

Band secretary Susan Speakman said: “Bands like ours saw their main source of income disappear in an instant when they had to stop putting on performances in March in response to the coronavirus pandemic.”

She added: “Our band should have been celebrating their 180th anniversary this year with a series of concerts and a tour to France.

“Unfortunately, due to the current pandemic all their plans have had to be cancelled.”

She explained that losing income over the summer has pushed brass bands into a still more difficult position.

However, in response Blackburn and Darwen Brass Band has joined efforts led by national body Brass Bands England to launch a new #SaveOurBrassBands campaign that aims to raise money to preserve this piece of vital North of England heritage for future generations.

It has been backed by former brass band player, the model and TV celebrity Melanie Sykes.

To support the band, go to: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/blackburnanddarwenband and for a list of bands in need across the country, visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/save-our-brass-bands.