Mansfield Building Society supports the next generation of local mining legacy

The Society’s Community Support Scheme has donated £500 to Creswell Colliery Brass Band.

The traditional, ex-mining brass band has been part of the Derbyshire community for over 125 years. Formed as the Creswell Colliery and District Band in 1899, rehearsals were held in the Colliery Office until the Miners Welfare was built in 1908. The band then went from strength-to-strength winning competitions, both nationally and internationally.

Fast forward to today, and after seeing local cutbacks in music education, the band wanted to offer somewhere for young people to learn to play brass instruments. Establishing a Development Training Band means that along with teaching new players, they are now able to open it up to adults that have never played an instrument before or those that wish to return to playing, through the bands ‘have a go’ sessions.

David Rothery of Creswell Colliery Brass Band, explains:

“Lessons are held weekly by senior band members. This, and the use of the instruments, is free of charge. We are proud to give this opportunity to the local community and The Mansfield’s donation allows us to maintain and replace instruments that have worn due to age and heavy usage.”

Emma Hall, Mansfield Building Society, commented:

“Mining is huge part of our heartland’s heritage, so we’re thrilled to support the band, and its members. The band has a legacy that stretches back through the generations – seeing them work so hard in the community, providing free music education to the next generation of band members, is a joy to see.”

If you would like to know more about Cre0swell Colliery Brass Band, visit creswellband.co.uk

For more information about Community Support Scheme, visit mansfieldbs.co.uk/community-support-scheme