Dobcross Bands seek community support for Menin Gate trip

DOBCROSS BANDERS are urging the community to get behind them to help fund their commemoration visit to The Menin Gate at Ypres in Belgium.

Dobcross Silver Band and Dobcross Brass Monkeys are honoured to have been asked to accompany the Saddleworth British Legion to play at the Last Post Ceremony in 2015. 

They have picked a date in August, celebrating the end of the centenary year commemorating 100 years since the beginning of the Great War 1914-1918.

But to make sure they can go on the once in a lifetime trip and unique experience, they are seeking support from generous locals.

The bands need to cover travel costs and also buy more hats and jackets, with some of the cost to be covered by the band members but also subsided by fundraising events.

A variety of activities have been arranged and the bands hope that in some small way everyone will be able to support them.

On Saturday, October 11, there will be a ‘Film Music Night’ at Dobcross Band and Social Club, including a film quiz. Dress up as your favourite film character as there will be prizes for costumes! Starts 8pm, entry £5.

Then on Sunday, November 9 there will be a 100th Anniversary Remembrance Concert at Dobcross Band Club. Entry £3.

And on Wednesday, December 17 enjoy Peter Young’s Christmas Comedy and Curry Cracker with legendary comedian Johnnie Casson as fiery festive food and fun is served up at the Swan Inn, Dobcross. Tickets £15, event starts at 8pm.

Other events in the pipeline include a Family Quiz Night and a Grand Easter Raffle, and raffle prizes are being sought from generous local businesses.

There will also be John’s Band Club sponsored walk next Spring when steward John Holden will walk to all Saddleworth’s band clubs. Please sponsor him using forms at the band club bar.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available, including full player sponsorship for £400, partial player sponsorship for £200 or £100 or hat sponsorship for £50.

Or help the bands on their journey as they travel the 378 miles from Dobcross to Dover then across to Calais, Dunkirk and the Menin Gate – at a cost of roughly £53 per mile.

Supporters can donate to help the bands by buying a mile, a half mile or even a quarter – every little bit counts.

If there is an alternate way you would like to sponsor the bands, please get in touch with Cathy Heaven (07554 116 787), Phil Cumberworth (07841 326505) or Andy Black (07799 072459).