A HISTORIC band has been saved from closure.

Silsden Town Band, whose roots date back to the 1840s, was under threat following the loss of several key players and its musical director.

But a new supremo, Gordon Eddison, has taken-up the baton.

And the outfit is recruiting across all sections.

"When I heard that the long-established band was struggling to recruit a conductor/musical director and was in danger of folding what could I do?" said Mr Eddison, who is well known in music circles as a player, conductor and teacher.

"It is a band full of lovely, keen folk and has such a long history.

"I am really looking forward to us all having a good time making music!"

The group had been disbanded during the Second World War but was successfully revived in the 1990s, growing to a membership of about 30, covering all ages and abilities.

However, it began to struggle last summer and was on the verge of folding.

Anyone interested in playing or booking the band is asked to contact secretary Stephen Haigh on silsdentownband@gmail.com or 01535 658925.

New members are welcome across all sections, but cornet, bass and trombone players are particularly needed.