Scotmid are pleased to support the cooperation band, who have previously been crowned the Champion Band of Great Britain twice.
Based in North Lanarkshire, the cooperation band – previously known as The Co-operative Funeralcare Band – is the most successful brass band in Scottish competition history having won the Scottish Championships on 33 occasions and celebrated its 100-year anniversary last year.
The band were also crowned champions of Great Britain in both 1990 and 1996 and they reached runner’s-up spot in the European Championships twice in 1989 and 1997.
Now thanks to the funding provided by Scotmid, which has 177 food stores situated in Scotland, the cooperation band will not only continue playing, but be able to compete at the highest level.
Scotmid CEO John Brodie said: “Scotmid are pleased to be able to support the cooperation band – we understand and acknowledge the valued role they play in their local communities and beyond.
“We’re confident the funding will help keep the band playing and winning further recognition in national and international competitions.”
Business Development Manager Steven Craig said: “The band are very excited to be moving into its second century with the announcement of assistance from the Scotmid Co-operative. The commitment from Scotmid will allow the band to prosper and grow over the next few years.
“New and exciting projects are being discussed and everyone at the band looks forward to working with Scotmid for the mutual benefit of both organisations.”
Band Secretary Keith Johnston added: “We are absolutely delighted to go into the second century of our band history in partnership with Scotmid. “This new relationship maintains the spirit of the band born out of the co-operative movement of which we are justifiably proud.
“We thank Scotmid for their commitment to the band and we look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship in the promotion of music and music education.”