A 40-YEAR tradition in Davyhulme is in danger of dying out.

The 3rd Davyhulme Scout and Guide Band is down to its last Girl Guide.

The band, which celebrates its 70th birthday next year, boasts 50 members from Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers, Leaders, Band SAS (Scouting Active Support) but only one member of the Brownie Guides remains.

The group are now on the hunt for more Guides to replenish its ranks.

“We never have had a large number of Guides in at any one time,” said Jim Field, the Group Scout Leader.

“This bucks the trend in most Scout and Guide bands where the Guides are by far the greater number.

“Many years ago Urmston had its own Guide band and it was a change in the Guiding rules that led to its demise.”

Band members are mainly from 3rd Davyhulme but it is open to any Scout or Guide from other groups.

It is a full wind band with brass, woodwind and a corps of drums modelled on HM Royal Marines.

The band has a reputation for playing a varied range of music, from traditional marches to modern pop tunes. Members have the opportunity to play at concerts, parades and compete in marching band contests.

“There has always been the fear that we are trying to recruit Guides into Scouts as well but if that were the case, we would not be a Scout and Guide Band,” added Jim.

“Our group is almost full with a membership of more than 200 so we would not have room for them. Guiding in Urmston is strong but the Guides are not all aware that they can join and take part in a great activity which combines music, drill, teamwork and self-discipline.”

Guides who can play a musical instrument of would like to learn how to play are encouraged to drop by rehearsals. There is an opportunity to learn a second instrument too.

Jim said: “We have had Guides in the band since the mid-70s and we would like to keep it that way so please come and join us.”

Rehearsals take place on every Thursday at the HQ, in Conway Road, off Lostock Road, at 7pm.

Costs are £6.50 per month, which covers use of an instrument, uniform and lessons.

For more information contact Jim on 0161 291 0473 or visit 3dscouts.com.