IT was made famous by the Thirties comic actor George Formby.

But now the ukulele could get a new lease of life – in a Huddersfield park.

Enthusiasts are getting together in Beaumont Park to set up a new music group.

And the “Uke in the Park” sessions, set to start next week, are already looking to be very popular.

A dozen people have already signed up for the first session which is being run by the Friends of Beaumont Park and Kirklees Music School.

The ukulele is a member of the guitar family of instruments and is thought to be one of the easiest instruments to learn.

It usually has four nylon or gut strings and originated in the 19th century as a Hawaiian instrument.

Mary Kenworthy, of the Friends group, said: “We are trying to develop other activities for older people to enjoy in the Park and came up with the idea of a music group.

“We had a meeting with people from Kirklees Music School and they suggested the ukulele as an easy instrument.

“They are loaning us some instruments for the taster session on Tuesday, February 19, at 2.30pm in the Park Visitor Centre and we have already had a number of people sign up.

“It is aimed at people over 55, but we are not being too precious about the ages.

“I was on holiday in Bridgnorth, Shropshire, last year and I saw a ukulele group playing in the town centre and they were marvellous.

“I’m going to give it a go but I cannot guarantee it will sound anything like music.”

Kirklees Music School has reported a big increase in the demand for ukulele lessons both in schools and in one-to-one tuition. Eagle Music, of Armitage Bridge, have reported sales averaging 10 a week.

Musical experience is not necessary for the park taster group and an instrument will be provided. Teaching will be by Ginette Eady, from Kirklees Music School.

Pat France, the school’s assistant principal, said: “The ukulele is a relatively easy instrument to learn and once the basics are mastered can bring a lot of pleasure.

“Our work with the Friends of Beaumont Park is one of many initiatives we are involved with to bring the pleasure of music making to the whole community.”

To book a place, email friends@fobp.co.uk or call 01484 645217.

Formby delighted audiences in the 30s with his comic act which featured songs on his ukulele.

The best-known ones included Leaning On A Lamp-Post and When I’m Cleaning Windows, while a ditty called With My Little Stick of Blackpool Rock landed him in trouble with the censors.