The recently crowned 2009 Scottish champions have been given a new name - The Co-operative Funeralcare Band.

 

The UK's largest funeral director has struck a sponsorship deal with the former Scottish Co-op Band, based in Glasgow, which is currently ranked 14th in the world.

 

The band was formed in 1918 by Co-operative staff, and has been sponsored by the Co-operative movement for over 90 years. 

 

It is Scotland's most successful band, having won the Scottish Championships on 29 occasions, as well as being the only Scottish band to win the National Championships. In addition, it has also been runner-up at the European Championships on two occasions.

 

David Hendry, Managing Director of The Co-operative Funeralcare, said: "Music and funerals go hand in hand. The type of music played at a funeral captures the individuality of the person, so to sponsor such a high profile brass band is a perfect fit".

 

"Furthermore, the deal couldn't have been announced at a better time", he continued, "after the band gained the prestigious title of this year's Scottish champions. It is a real honour to be associated with such a talented group of people".

 

Chairman of The Co-operative Funeralcare Band, Iain Howie, said "We are delighted that The Co-operative Funeralcare has agreed to sponsor us. It enables us to remain true to our Co-operative roots"

 

In the picture attached, Mr. David Hendry, Managing Director of The Co-operative Funeralcare (centre right) is welcomed in Glasgow's George Square by Robert McCorkell (centre left) and Ewan Millar (right)  of the newly named band while Mr. John Taylor, National Community Marketing Manager of The Co-operative Funeralcare (left) looks on.