Brassed Off stars try to save band

Brassed Off star Stephen Tompkinson and his fellow cast members from the hit film are looking to raise money for Grimethorpe Colliery Band to help ease their money worries.

Members of the world famous band warned last week it is in danger of folding if it does not find new sponsorship.

Stephen, who played band member Phil in the film, has fond memories of Grimethorpe where Brassed Off was filmed and told the Chronicle the band was a national treasure which could not be lost.

He said he had spoken with Phil Jackson, who played Jim, about a fund-raiser, adding: “I’m sure the cast will get together and do something.

“We don’t know what it will be yet, but we are all aware and if we can do a concert or something, I’m sure they would all help.”

Stephen, who went on to film television shows DCI Banks and Wild at Heart, said the public needed to be made aware of the band’s plight, adding: “It seems the disparity between places like certain opera houses and the money they’re getting, and people like the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, who, in terms of musicians, are every bit as skilled and qualified.

“As far as Great Britain is concerned, they are much more unique and the sound is unique.

“They travel the world and take this sound with them to as many people as possible.

“It would be a crying shame if they were to eventually close down — I would find it hard to take.”

He said he thought cut backs towards the arts may be to blame for the band’s money problems, adding: “I think the Royal Opera House is getting something like £250m per year to keep going and the band aren’t asking for anything.

“It would be nice for someone to recognise them.”

He urges individuals, businessmen and advertisers to back the band to ensure their survival.

“They are the champions of Great Britain, they have played all over the world.

“People can raise money themselves or write to their MPs, just do something to help save this national treasure.

“It’s part of our heritage,” he said.