[Retlaw]

Originally Posted by nholme

Alaistergee posted a question recently asking for information about Accrington Old Band. It was recommended that he start a thread in this section. It doesn't look like he has so I'm starting one as I'm interested in the same thing.

I'm researching the bands history in advance of the WW1 centenary next year when the East Lancs Concert Band (formerly Accrington Old Band) will be involved in various events remembering the Accrington Pals.

I have information from the years up to 1900 and from mid 70's but sadly lacking much from the years in between. I'm especially interested in 1900 to 1920, but also anyone who has memories or photos of the band under one of it's other names ( Accrington Military Band, Hyndburn Military Band etc)

Any information kindly received.

Nick

I am also involved in the upcoming centenary events relating to the formation of the Accrington Pals, Bill Turner and I started gathering material for the 100th anniversry when we packed up the displays from the 90th anniversary in 2006, sadly Bill died in 2007, but I have carried on. One thing I have noticed in the past few months, how many experts on World War 1, are now coming out of the wood work, as August 2014 gets nearer, good with the blather but very few facts. I am already in contact with Ian McGuiness re the Pals March and Accrington Old Band.
So I think we need to see some credentials, other wise your wasting your time.
Some people say I am too blunt in my replies, I am not a word smith, or a diplomat, and write as I think, and until I know them, they come across as glory hunters wanting to jump on the Pals band wagon, we already have a few, and some people are becoming wise to them, & they are being side lined.