A HISTORIC town band is striking-up again.

Two years ago, dwindling membership forced Silsden Town Band to fold in its traditional format. But now several members have got together with the aim of resurrecting the once-flourishing ensemble.

A new committee has been formed.

And experienced players are being sought to join the ranks.

New chairman, David Loud, says: “The town band is part of the fabric of Silsden.

“There is just too much history, dating back to the 1840s, for the band to simply disappear.

“We thank the previous committee members for their commitment over many years of service.

“The new committee looks forward to bringing traditional brass band music back to the streets of Silsden, under the watchful eye of principal cornet player Rob Bergman.

“There are key dates in the town calendar that in the past have been supported by the band ­– and it is our goal that the band can once again be heard as part of these events.

“Whilst numbers are still small, the band can only accept experienced players who have achieved a competent standard.

“So, if you have a cornet, horn, trombone, euphonium, baritone or tuba that has been gathering dust and you want to get back to playing with a friendly community band, please get in touch. Some instruments are available on loan if required.”

David can be contacted on 07739 295093.

The then band decided to call it a day in the summer of 2019 when low numbers meant it could no longer perform concerts without help from other players.

During the past year, the outfit had lost about a third of its membership due to retirements, ill-health, people moving away or work commitments. Its ‘final’ performance was at a Silsden Churches Together garden party.