New union partnership announced by Kinneil Band
Kinneil Band has announced that it has secured new sponsorship from Unite the Union Scotland.
This new partnership comes as a result of the band's participation in several Unite events in 2024, specifically in relation to the ‘Keep Grangemouth Working’ campaign which is important to Kinneil players past and present, as well as many residents of its home town of Bo'ness.
“This new-found relationship is a testament to Kinneil Band's commitment to maintaining a strong presence in our local community,” said band manager Billie-Jane Hamilton.
“We would like to thank Unison for their continued support over the past decades.”
Union support for the band began in 1983, following on from backing it received from miners of the local Kinneil Colliery. Originally, the band was sponsored by NUPE, and in 1995 Unison agreed to continue this support when the NUPE, NALGO and COHSE unions merged.
“Without the support of these organisations over the past 40 years, it would not have been possible to keep the band running,” Billie-Jane continued.
“We are very grateful to Unison for their longstanding involvement with the band, and are excited to begin our partnership with Unite the Union Scotland. Their commitment is invaluable to securing the future of the band and will play a key part in the development of our talented youth players."
As a result of this new partnership, the band’s name will now change to Unite Scotland Kinneil Band.
Billie-Jane added: “The band is excited about this new opportunity and looks forward to its first outing under its new name at the Glasgow May Day Parade this Sunday, where we will be leading the Unite Scotland delegation.”
