YOUNG musicians from Blackburn and Darwen have been assured they will not be "thrown out" of their ensembles despite changes in the way music services are organised by local authorities in Lancashire.

Chairman of the Friends of Lancashire Student Symphony Orchestra, Ian Longworth, fears for the future for members of Lancashire Music Ensembles.

He said: "When Blackburn with Darwen Council became a unitary authority it bought in the music service for schools from Lancashire County Council, but thanks to new Government funding it has been able to set up its own music service.

"Such service is in its infancy and does not purport to be able to offer the opportunities to participate in youth ensembles of the highest quality to the talented musicians from the Blackburn and Darwen area.

"Gifted children should not become innocent victims of this."

The issue was debated by Lancashire County Council's schools and general purposes sub-committee.

A county council spokesman said: "Pupils currently receiving tuition with the ensembles can continue with until they leave school, if Blackburn with Darwen Council provides funding.

"Because Blackburn with Darwen withdrew from our services this can't be extended to new members."

Blackburn with Darwen Council is adamant nobody will lose out as a result of the changes. Bill Taylor, chairman of the education and training committee said: "Our intention is to develop a quality service of our own.

"We welcome the decision to extend the period of time students can stay with the ensembles. It is in the best interests of the children, which is what both authorities want."

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