An Isle of Wight brass band is celebrating a £5,000 grant for new uniforms. The 27 musicians of Cowes Concert band will be kitted out in traditional-style jackets thanks to the award from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation, an independent charitable trust.

The jackets will be black, with red lapels and cuffs with gold detail to reflect the colours of Cowes’ town crest which is displayed on the band’s music stand banners.

Band treasurer Tony Hebditch, who put together the grant application, said:

“This is fantastic news for the band and marks another milestone in our resurgence over the last few years. At one stage our membership was down to about 12 players.

“We hope our new look will result in more concert bookings and heighten the entertainment of audiences, as well as provide the band with a feel-good factor.”

The uniforms are being made by a specialist manufacturer in Leeds and are expected to be ready in January.

“We are hoping to make our first concert in the new uniforms a special occasion and will be inviting several local dignitaries.”

Toni Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of the HIWCF, added:

“I am absolutely delighted that Cowes Concert Band approached us for support and hope their forthcoming concert to celebrate the new uniforms is a great success.

“We still have funds available for small, local community groups across the Island and I would encourage anyone involved in such groups to get in touch.”

The band rehearses on Monday evenings at the school rooms attached to East Cowes Methodist Church, Yarborough Road. New players are always welcome. More information is available from musical director Andy Norman on 566826 or 07786 166304.