Brass Bands England Chief Executive Officer, Kenny Crookston has further outlined his organisation's understanding of the most up to date COVID-19 guidelines for England, issued to them by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).

Facebook statement

Published on Brass Bands England's Facebook page he stated:

At the end of a very long day for some of our staff members, in response to some queries we've received we would just like to clarify a few points in relation to last night's DCMS announcement and how this affects brass bands in England.

First of all, the health and safety of bands' members is paramount and the advice published earlier today by BBE must be read IN FULL to ensure that the correct steps are taken before anyone gets together for rehearsals or performances.

To simplify the circumstances in which groups may play together, these are:

1. Any six non-vulnerable people meeting in an outdoor space, but socially distanced and taking all possible precautions in line with the DCMS guidance.

2. Members of up to two households playing inside or outside, but again respecting all social distancing guidelines.

3. Bands that are either registered charities or companies registered at Companies House, or which run their own venue, may have up to 30 people in the building while they play together. This number should reflect everyone present — not a band of 30 plus others.

Bands that choose to do this must understand completely the guidelines issued by DCMS and accept full responsibility for their actions or otherwise. Accountability is key so do not be tempted to circumvent any of the most recent advice.

The above guidelines have been fully approved by the DCMS and we will continue to keep the brass band community updated with the latest information from DCMS and Public Health England on our website at: www.bbe.org.uk when appropriate.

Bands in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland should refer to specific government advice relating to each individual nation."

Bands that choose to do this must understand completely the guidelines issued by DCMS and accept full responsibility for their actions or otherwise. Accountability is key so do not be tempted to circumvent any of the most recent adviceBBE

Clears confusion

He concluded: "We hope that this clears up any confusion. We will be issuing specific information on how bands should proceed in relation to rehearsals and venues during the next week. Again, this will be ratified by the relevant authorities before we do so.

Finally, however anyone decides about resuming rehearsals or any other activity, please proceed with the utmost caution and ensure that your band members are as safe as possible and that nothing your band does puts any other members of the public at risk.

Stay safe.

Kenny Crookston, CEO, Brass Bands England