Untitled

On 31st August 1863, the band came second in a contest at the Cheltenham Pleasure Grounds in Harrogate. The records show that Leyburn won Ł10 and also C. Joicey of Leyburn was awarded the first prize for Solo Cornet.

Two days later on 2nd September there is a record of Leyburn playing at a Gala (Ripon Flower and Horticultural Show) and Contest in Ripon. Perhaps they were worn out by Harrogate because they were not on the winners, list!

The next mention we have is on the 8th August 1864 at a Band Contest in West Hartlepool. Thousands of people flocked to the town to see this event. Leyburn came fourth winning Ł2 (worth c.Ł150 in 2009)

After this time Leyburn is mentioned in a few local Galas and the odd Contests held in various places over the next 10 or so years. Things must have gone a little flat.

No further mention is made of the band that we know of until 1889 when we learn from an old minute book that the band started playing again as Leyburn and District Band, with 18 members. Its president was The Lord Bolton. The band was such a flourishing concern that it held an Annual Ball in the Town Hall, as well as other dances. The last entry for that is in February 1897.

However, it is believed that the band continued off and on in the early 1900’s under a variety of names ranging from the Town Band to the Leyburn Military band and it was decided to name it after the latter title. In 1911 the band launched an appeal for funds for new uniforms-its bank balance stood at Ł8. It was felt that new uniforms were vital to keep up their appearance in context with their name as Leyburn Military Band, and to be absolutely necessary to their standing and appearance. Sadly the 1914-18 war curtailed the activities of the band.