THE world famous Black Dyke Band will be banging the drum for the Victoria Hall as it takes to the stage for the venue’s biggest fundraiser to date.

Audiences, say organisers, will enjoy ‘world class brass’ at the historic venue, which is described as having the ‘best acoustics in the North West’.

The band will play there in March to raise money to ensure it continues to play a role in the community.

Friends of Victoria Hall have been raising funds after it emerged that in 2016 the popular venue could shut if money for its upkeep is not found.

Victoria Hall is a premier arts venue and know for hosting musical concerts as well as providing a base for projects which support vulnerable people living in the community.

The hall is also home to Bolton Methodist Mission.

Now trustees are looking to improve the hall and modernise facilities.

David Tomlinson, trustee at Victoria Hall, said the event was set to be huge.

He said: “This is the biggest fundraising event we have put on for the Victoria Hall.

“Fundraising activities have been very successful so far but fundraising group and the Friends of Victoria Hall need to raise about £30,000 a year to help improve our offering to the people of Bolton, maintain this wonderful building as a premium venue serving the whole community.

“The Friends of the Victoria Hall are pleased and delighted to welcome best brass brand in Britain as our first major event of 2018. Please support.”

He added: “Venues like this are vital to the economy — when we had a concert on and The Albert Hall had a concert on, the restaurants were full.

“The Victoria Hall, the Alberts Halls and the Octagon all complement each other. The Victoria Hall is just across the road from The Vaults where people can enjoy a meal before a concert.”

He added:”The Friends of Victoria Hall have done terrifically well to get to where we are and we are always looking for volunteers to help.”

Other fundraising activities include a lunchtime concert and a varied entertainments programme.

The band will take to the stage on March 17.

Tickets are priced £15 per person, or £13.50 if booking a group of six or more tickets. These are available to buy at www.boltonmethodistmission.org.uk, and at The Victoria Hall Box Office.

The Box Office is open Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am - 2pm, and Saturday 10am - 12pm, or call the office on 01204 522 569 for more information.