In the 150th year of making music together, a brass band has officially opened their newly refurbished bandroom.
The room, used by Stacksteads Brass Band, has undergone a major transformation lately, and last week, invited guests, including local dignitaries, councillors and supporters, attended the official opening of the newly refurbished bandroom on Newchurch Road, Stacksteads.
Phases one and two of a three phase project are now complete, with works including new windows, doors, roof, heating, lighting and an impressive new frontage.
The band, which was formed in 1872 and celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, has been undertaking major renovations on its bandroom to ensure the building is updated, safe and future proofed for the next generation of brass musicians.
The refurbishment has been made possible through fundraising and generous grants from local organisations.
The Mayor of Rossendale, Councillor Anne Cheetham, officially cut the ribbon and congratulated the band on their achievements in raising funds and completing the works.
Chairman of Stacksteads Brass Band, Joe Healey, said: “We are absolutely delighted to open our newly refurbished bandroom in what is a milestone year for our band as we celebrate our 150th anniversary this year.
“I want to extend my thanks to our musical director, Fred Bowker, and all band members for their patience and fortitude during the renovations and for their consistent dedication to the continued success of the band.
"On behalf of all members of the band our thanks must go to the our sponsors, donors, local businesses and all those who have provided funds, advice and support throughout the renovations to ensure our bandroom is future proofed for the next generation to enjoy.”
Public grants were awarded from various charitable bodies including: Reeps Moss Community Fund; Rossendale Borough Council; Stacksteads Countryside Park Group; Eric Wright Charitable Trust' B & E Boys; and a bequeath from Mr Frank Ridings Estate.
Generous support was also given by XL Signs and Graphics on the signage and window art; S.Goggins for roofing, stone cleaning and tower-scaffold services; Lance Withington for decoration advice and materials; and Kay Helliwell of the Hare and Hounds for kindly catering the opening ceremony.
The band have also started to update its uniform and has recently invested in new over jackets which have been sponsored by long-term supporters of the band, Ray and Yvonne Harrison of The Crown Inn Bacup.
New band ties were sponsored, in memoriam of former band member Eugene O'Connor, by Pat O'Connor.
To celebrate the band’s 150th anniversary a celebratory concert will be held at Bacup Royal Court Theatre on Saturday December 10 where they will be joined by special guest Sean Ruane, St Anne’s Community Choir and BYTES.
Tickets will be available for purchase soon.
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