The travel costs to attend the competitions have increased dramatically over recent years and the locations of some of the major competitions have also moved to Ireland and the South, placing extra burdens on the non sponsored bands.

It has become more difficult each year to maintain the running of both the Adult and Juvenile Bands. In the past we were able to secure sponsorship but this has now been withdrawn. The outcome of this may be that the bands and the teaching facilities being offered to the young people may be lost due to lack of funding.

Our bands are very active in the local area and as we run classes for young people we wish to be able to continue to offer this facility to the communities. All band members including the young persons are expected to pay an annual fee to assist with the running of the bands. We also require pay for the upkeep of our premises, which is a listed building and is used by other local organisations.