Band hopes artwork will strike a chord

GRIMETHORPE Colliery Band has commissioned a work of art from a renowned Yorkshire artist.

The artwork from ex-miner Joe Scarborough has now been completed, and will be officially released at the band’s concert in Sheffield next Saturday.

He will be the honorary guest at the concert at the Victoria Hall.

He said: “I keep saying

I’m winding down on commissions but this one was such a gift for a painter I couldn’t refuse, especially this painter.

“Brassed Off is one of my favourite films, I used to work down the pit and I love to paint iconic buildings from around the world – I would probably have done it for free, but don’t tell the band.

“Featuring Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall, the Albert Hall and even Mount Fuji, but starring the players of this wonderful ensemble, it’s a work that I thoroughly enjoyed.”

Richard Windle, the band’s manager, added: “Merchandise at our concerts has always been popular but CD sales over recent times have obviously dropped off as the amount of audience members with CD players has declined.

“We’ve had to think outside the box as our audience have commented that they still like to leave the concert with a memento.

“Joe’s style of art seemed to be the perfect match with the band.

“He started life as a miner, is from South Yorkshire and luckily, he didn’t need too much persuading to complete a piece for us.

“The picture is a visual history of the band, with scenes from Grimethorpe village, Grimethorpe Hall, The Albert Hall and some of the destinations that we’ve performed in around the world, all featured.”

and volunteer engagement officer at the reserve, said: “Our lantern trail is back. “Last year’s event was absolutely magical and sold out, so this year we have two nights instead and there’s more moving puppets this time. “It’s fantastic to work together with community groups and local families to create these exciting events and people can explore Old Moor after dark which is great fun.”

GIGANTIC wetland wildlife is set to take over at a local nature reserve tonight. RSPB Old Moor nature reserve will host its WildLights Lantern trail tonight and tomorrow. It will see sculptures created by artists, as well as lanterns made by the local community. It kicks off tonight at 4.30pm and at the same time tomorrow – and there’s lots on offer for residents to enjoy. Liz Harding, community