A bandleader is launching a campaign to save a historic Yorkshire anthem from dying out.

Gordon Eddison, musical director of Otley Brass Band, says fewer young people than ever know the famous On Ilkla Moor Baht ’At anthem and he fears it risks being forgotten forever.

Now, the 55-year-old is heading plans for a county-wide campaign to safeguard its future.

He said: “I’m more Yorkshire than a piece of parkin so this has really got to me.

“If we don’t do something about it, the only way young people are going to get to know On Ilkla Moor Baht ’At is through a novelty tea towel. Over recent years, I’ve got used to seeing blank faces when I ask youngsters to play On Ilkla Moor Baht ’At.

“I’d say that only about ten per cent of children have a clue when I ask them these days.”