Band's crusade for new members to join

The Imperial Crusaders Drum and Trumpet Corps is based in Sowerby Bridge and has been running since 1982.

But in recent years, the band has seen a decline in membership and is crying out for new members to bolster its musicians.

Colin Bradley, current band master, said: “We have seen a decline in membership over the past few years but have managed to keep going.

“The band is in a serious situation, where we may have to call time on our activity because of a lack of members.”

Jonathan Bates added: “I have been with the band for 11 years now and I don’t want it to end.

“It has been a massive part of my life and I am now one of the instructors there.

“We are desperate for new members aged eight or upwards - all out staff are DBS checked and have taken a safeguarding course. I would like to say a massive thank you to Colin, who has put in hard work and has been the rock of the band.”

If you would like to get involved, go along to the band’s practice on Friday nights at St Paul’s Methodist Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge from 6.15pm until 8.30pm. Visit www. imperialcrusaders.co.uk