A DALES-based brass band has re-started its beginner's section in a bid to attract more youngsters, and to welcome back older brass players who may have got a little rusty- or who just want a go.

So far, new members of the junior band of Giggleswick and Settle Brass Band range from the oldest, 95 year old Arthur Riley, to the youngest, seven year old Walter Swinscoe.

The band welcomes brass players of any ability and even those without their own instruments - it has some potential new members can borrow.

One new member, Kathy Swinscoe, was a little rusty after not playing for 20 years.

She said: "I hadn't played since I was 18 and to restart, 20 years later, was such a joy - the brass band are a great group of fun people and have been great in encouraging me and helping me to get back into music."

Amelia Heseltine, 19, a former member of the junior band, said she was glad to see it started up again.

She said: "The junior brass band helped me improve so much when I started out and helped my transition up to the regular band; so, I am glad to see it restart and now I can help encourage the next set of players."

Bandleader, Kevin Maltby, joined the band in 1977, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, who served in the band for more than 50 years.

Kevin said the junior band played an important role in securing the future of the Giggleswick and Settle Brass Band. He said: “The average age of our brass band is well over 40 – If we want to continue long-term, we need to get everyone – young and old playing and creating the next generation of Giggleswick and Settle Brass Band”.

The band plays classical, popular and traditional music at both private and public events across the area.

On Sunday, December 10 it will play at a carol concert at St Peter's Church, Coniston Cold. The concert, at 7pm will be followed by mince pies and mulled wine at the village hall.

Giggleswick and Settle Brass Band. which celebrated its 70th anniversary last year, was formed in 1952 when the separate Settle and Giggleswick brass bands amalgamated.

Bands also existed in Austwick, Bentham, Ingleton and Langcliffe, whose players likely became members of the Settle band.

Anyone interested in joining the junior band can attend rehearsals, which take place every Wednesday, between 6.45pm and 7.15pm at Settle Conservative Club, Settle, or contact Kathy Swinscoe by email at kathy.swinscoe@gmail.com

More about the band at https://www.giggleswickandsettlebrassband.co.uk