A FAMOUS Westhoughton band has produced a pamphlet outlining its work during World War One.
“Wingates Band & World War One” explains how the brass band overcame wartime austerity to make its first gramophone records in 1915.
Wingates performed for free several times in the town during the war to support charities.
Band president David Kaye said: “Many bands were forced to close down during the war but Wingates continued throughout almost as normal as a result of the occupations of most of the band’s members.
“Virtually all the players earned their living down the pits of Westhoughton and, as coal mining was a reserved occupation, they were exempt from being called up.”
For the brochure, call Mr Kaye on 01204 696984 or pick one up at Westhoughton Library.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article