THE latest round of funding from The Metalcraft Cockermouth Community Fund has been awarded to one of the oldest brass bands in the world - The Cockermouth Mechanics Band.

The local 30-piece band have received a £250 donation and will put the money towards the purchase of a soprano cornet.

Set up by Metalcraft, manufacturers of specialist intermediate level waste containers for Sellafield’s decommissioning process, the community fund supports not-for-profit organisations and financially contributes to organisations within the town.

John Wilson, secretary of The Cockermouth Mechanics Band, said: “Our members are delighted to have been chosen for this funding.

"Currently, our soprano player is playing on a trumpet which is creating a mismatch with the other instruments in the band, and we really need a cornet to achieve the authentic brass band sound.

"This contribution will go towards a new cornet that will help us to continue our high standard of music.”

Stephen Buttriss of Metalcraft added: “We selected the band as recipients of our ninth funding round as we felt that, during this tough pandemic period, the value of music has really been felt within families, households and communities."

"The band not only provides music to events such as the Armistice Parade, carnivals and festivals but also spreads cheer and light into Care Homes within the town.

“We look forward to receiving applicants for the next round - which includes an additional £250 rolled over from this quarter - and would encourage any local organisation that would benefit from funding to get in touch.”

The Metalcraft Cockermouth Community Fund offers up to £2,000 per year of support for organisations based in Cockermouth.

£500 per quarter is available to community groups and not-for-profit organisations based in Cockermouth to support specific projects, as opposed to day-to-day running costs.

Organisations are also able to apply for practical support from Metalcraft, which is delivered by apprentices on its scheme.

At the time of the Community Fund launch, Stephen Buttriss said: “As a supplier to the nuclear industry, we’ve had a long relationship with the county of Cumbria and wanted to give something back to this key community, which has supported our business for over 40 years.”