GRANGE Moor Brass Band has enjoyed a long and distinguished history stretching back over 150 years.

The only problem is, virtually nothing is known about it.

To help celebrate their important anniversary this year, players are trying to find out as much as possible about their band's past.

Almost nothing is known about the first century of the band's existence, while only sketchy details are known about the past half century.

"Not a lot has been written down," said member Andrew Carr.

"We are looking for anything and everything related to our history."

The work is being co-ordinated by the band's historian Gary Goodall.

The band is enjoying a resurgence in popularity and has had some serious successes over the past 18 months. Most recently it came first in the Yorkshire Region Championships in March.

In summer, a celebratory gala will be held in the village. It is hoped the centrepiece will be a comprehensive run-down of the band's past.

"The band has never really featured in print," said Andrew.

Newspaper articles traced from the 1970s and 80s mention a Mr K N Field of Kirkheaton, a Mrs J Smith of Thornhill and Jack Taylor of Flockton.

Current members hope to speak to them or their families and start back-tracking through the years.

Tales also abound of a case crammed with archives.

"At one point there was a rumour of a big suitcase full of memorabilia but that seems to have disappeared into the ether," said Andrew.

Anyone with information can contact the band through the website www.grangemoorband.co.uk.