Newmains Band returns
THE celebrated name of the is firmly back on the Scottish banding map - and is on the lookout for more players to join in the fun.
With the help of friends, local people and ex-players, the North Lanarkshire outfit performed at Newmains Gala Day on Saturday, June 13. It was the ensemble's first public outing since disbanding in 1995.
Graeme Goldie, who has been spearheading the project to bring the band back together, commented: "Unfortunately, the effects of the surrounding steel and ironworks closures, most notably the famous Ravenscraig, took their toll because that was where most of the bands' members worked at that time.
"The aim is mainly to restore some heritage back to the community and more importantly, to give youngsters the chance to learn a musical instrument, free of charge.
"This is an extremely ambitious project and I am fully aware of the obstacles that lie ahead, but I am not working on this myself. I have had the help of fellow banders from the brass banding world and it's very much appreciated."
The reformed held its first formal committee meeting on June 10. Discussions have taken place with the Scottish Coal Regeneration Trust, the Big Lottery Fund and Newmains Community Trust about the possibility of applying for funding.
Anyone looking to get involved with , or to contribute to its fundraising efforts, should contact Graeme Goldie: 07508247785.
