A HISTORIC band based in Bradford has issued another plea for new members as it bids to secure its future.

The City of Bradford Pipe Band has wowed crowds at countless events with pipes, drums and dancers since 1914.

But unfortunately, the band is currently unable to accept bookings due to a lack of players.

Stacey Jenkins, who has been part of the band since she was a youngster, said: "New members are needed urgently.

"Ideally we need experienced musicians - although we are obviously still willing to teach complete beginners."

Bob Jenkins, pipe major, said: "It takes a good couple of years for someone to learn the bagpipes so teaching beginners is more the long-term solution. 

"Ideally we would need experienced pipers to join now so we can start taking engagements again."

Rob Batty, band secretary, added: "We all really want the band to survive and to perform out in public again."

The band has three sections -  pipes, drums and dancers. 

Before it faced issues with taking on new members, the band took bookings throughout the year, regularly performing at engagements including weddings, galas, street processions and military functions.

Stacey said: "Unfortunately we have been gently declining in numbers over the few years due to age, ill health and other reasons such as other interests taking priority and work commitments.

"We also struggle to attract new members, especially youngsters, and I think there are a few factors for this.

"Firstly, it's not seen as a 'cool' hobby to do. 

"Secondly, it takes dedication and commitment to learn an instrument and attend weekly practice and subsequent engagements.

"Thirdly, we don't have the exposure in Bradford centre that we used to do. 

"I don't think there are many in the city who even realise that Bradford has one of the oldest civilian pipe bands in the whole of England because we don't get invited to play for important events in the city - or if we have been invited previously, we may not have had the numbers to take the booking.

"It’s a catch-22 situation."

Stacey described the band as "really special".

She said: "Not only do you learn new skills but you make new friends of all ages and get to visit new places. 

"The members are a real friendly bunch of people - in fact, we're more like extended family to each other."

Anyone interested in joining the band can contact Rob by emailing cobpipeband@gmail.com or calling 07872832244.