The Wingates Band has made its own contribution to the many local, national and international projects focusing on the centenary of the commencement of the First World War, by publishing a brochure outlining their story during the 1914-18 global conflict.

Reserved

Many bands were forced to close down during the War, but Wingates continued throughout the conflict almost as normal, as a result of many of the band players being in reserved occupations such as coal mining.

And whilst thankfully very few Wingates musicians saw action (there were no reported band casualties), they certainly played their part on the home front, as a number of regular concerts were performed in the town in support of the many local wartime charities.

Surprising fact

Entitled 'Wingates Band & World War I', the brochure also highlights a most surprising fact: Despite the severe financial constraints, in 1915 the band made its first ever gramophone record, with Regal Records travelling from London to Westhoughton to record a total of six 10-inch shellac discs, which were subsequently released for sale during 1915 and 1916.

Despite the severe financial constraints, in 1915 the band made its first ever gramophone record, with Regal Records travelling from London to Westhoughton4BR

Request

The brochure can be requested by calling 01204 696984, or collected by visitors to the 'Westhoughton at War' exhibition staged by Westhoughton Local History Group.