OWNERS of musical instruments gathering dust in cellars, attics and cupboards are being asked to take them out of mothballs for pupils across Bury.

Bury Music Service is looking for any unused instruments, which could be donated or loaned for budding young musicians to practise with.

The Mayor of Bury, Councillor Paul Nesbit, is himself a keen trumpeter: and he trumpeted the cause by launching a mayoral appeal to run throughout his year of office.

From flutes to violins and clarinets to kettle drums, all orchestral or big band instruments are welcome.

Staff from the service, which provides musical support to schools across Bury, say that new instruments will allow more youngsters to try out different instruments.

Music centre director Paul Jarvis said: "There is always a shortage of instruments and for some of the more popular ones youngsters have to share, which is not ideal."

Those wanting to loan or give an instrument may do so through the Mayor's office, telephone 253 5117.