IN its heyday Horwich RMI Band was world class winning the title of "Champions of Great Britain and the Colonies".

Now an accomplished musician and the great-granddaughter of famous composer Harold Moss is on track to reform the band to celebrate Horwich's rich heritage.

Andrea Moss, a music teacher who works as supply for Bolton Music Service, has organised a meeting to get on track the reconstitution of Horwich RMI Band.

Already there has been a lot of interest from musicians to be part of the band, including from those whose family played in the original band.

The original Horwich RMI (Railway Mechanics Institute) Band was established in 1912 by George Hughes.

The idea was to enlist railway employees but only one member of the old Lancashire and Yorkshire Band passed the audition.

The other members were recruited from the Black Dyke, Irwell Springs and Foden’s brass bands.

In 1915 the band finished second to Foden’s at Belle Vue.

Later that year, after a strike at Elworth — Foden’s Factory — a dozen players who had been prominent in the picket lines were fired.

They promptly moved to Horwich and took great pleasure in beating their old firm in later contests.

It is the development of Horwich Loco Works which prompted Miss Moss, who is from Horwich, and a well known musician in brass band circles, to re-establish the band to celebrate the town's history.

Miss Moss is the great granddaughter of Mr Moss, known for popular tunes such as "The Nightingale" and "The Joker".

She said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for reforming a famous name in brass music.

"Not only can we draw on a wealth of experience and nostalgia which remains in the area, we have the potential to pull together a highly talented band of musicians."

The original Horwich RMI's crowning glory was to win the Crystal Palace Contest on September 23, 1922, to become the "Champions of Great Britain and the Colonies."

Sadly, as a result of the recession and redundancies of employees at the Loco Works, the Band collapsed in 1931 and slipped into musical folk lore.

Miss Moss said: "I truly believe that this mixture of heritage and talent will make Horwich RMI Band a recognised name once more.

"It is positive and reassuring that many people and organisations in our community have already pledged support.

"The idea has really taken off and we are building up a head of steam to our first meeting.

"I'd like to take the opportunity to invite anyone with an interest in brass music and the heritage of the Horwich RMI to attend."

The first meeting will be held on Monday (4th July) at 8pm.

It will take place in the Aspinall Suite of Horwich RMI, in Ramsbottom Road, Horwich, which will be a base for the band, on Ramsbottom Road.

For further details ring 07780 459960 or email brassmusicteacher@gmail.com.