THE Greenalls brewery may be long gone, but its brass band is hoping the music will live on.

For 26 years before it closed its doors, the Greenalls brewery in Warrington supported the Greenalls brass band.

But the doors have been closed for two years now and the 28-strong band is struggling to find the support to keep the prize-winning act on the road.

The band is looking for the chance to perform at concerts or even charitable events to spread word of its impressive calibre.

The group came first at last year's Rhyl Festival of Brass and won third place in the Lancashire Open.

Now it has been invited to take part in the World Championships in Holland, but might have to give it a miss if it cannot find a sponsor.

In order to take part in the bi-annual competition, the band will have to raise £4,000 in sponsorship.

And although it is not until July, it will have to get the support by the start of next month.

Andrew Jones, trumpet player with the band for 15 months and music teacher at Great Sankey High School, said: "We used to get lots of support from the brewery, but now it has closed we are having to build up our contacts again.

"We want to take part in the World Championships, but we need to find a sponsor by next month. It's a bi-annual event so it doesn't come around that often.

"We know how to play we just need some concerts to play in."

Anyone who thinks they can help the Greenalls Band can call the chairman, Jim Ball, on 01744 730406.