A BURNLEY high school's brass band has launched an appeal for instruments after becoming a victim of its own amazing success

The award-winning Towneley High School ensemble, back after a tour of Italy, has attracted scores of would-be musicians wanting to join.

But brass instruments are expensive and the school can only afford to supply two.

Sixty pupils turned up to a meeting for new members after the band came top in several British music festivals and impressed audiences with concerts all over the Burnley area.

Conductor David Warren is becoming frustrated with the lack of money. He told the Citizen: "The band has obviously struck a chord with our pupils and this is one occasion when we can proudly blow our own trumpet."

He said the school was desperate for new instruments, despite the generosity of governors, who had granted £1,000 - enough to buy a 20-year-old euphonium and a 25-year-old cornet.

"I would be grateful for any donations of instruments either by individuals or local music shops," said Mr Warren.

"Donations or sponsorship from business would also be gratefully received. Without help, many budding musicians will find themselves on a long waiting list for a spare instrument."

Prices for good-quality new instruments range from £1,000 for a cornet to £5,000 for a tuba.

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