A new appeal for info on Forest of Dean Brass Bands, partic the Two Bridges Band . I understand this band formed in 1900, disbanded 1952 and the Blakeney and District Silver Band was formed 1953 from the remaining members of Two Bridges Brass Band who moved to Blakeney.
Does anyone have any archive info / pics on this band.

The Bands were very much part of Forest social life. Often associated with a colliery, church or the Buffs ( R.A.O.B. ). I have pictures of the Excelsior, Berry Hill , Lydbrook and Cinderford bands, but I cannot lay my hands on Blakeney / Two Bridges .....

however I think this may be them ...
http://www.satiche.org.uk/vinbbp/phot1077.jpg

I have just emailed a picture of Two Bridges Band so keep a look out for it.

It has my partners Grandfather Frank Reed and her Great Uncle's Archie Sladen and she thinks its Archie's brother Harold Sladen in the photo.

There are a few pages (and a number of pictures) on the Two Bridges Band in Maurice Bent's Book "The Musical Traditions of Dean - Volume 1" (though there isn't a Volume 2 yet - last time I asked him it was still "work in progress"!). Also a page on the formation of the Blakeney and District Silver Band from the remnants of the Two Bridges Band.

Regards,

-Colin