The band has had a very chequered history, but has been in existence in some form or other for over 125 years, initially under the 'banner' of Harton Coal Company of South Shields as the 'Harton Colliery Band'. The Band shot to fame in 1919 when it won the British Open Championship and became the first colliery band to win this premier award.
By 1958, the merging of neighbouring collieries was reflected in the band's name, which became 'Harton and Westoe Colliery Band', but Westoe Colliery was closed in 1993 and the band was faced with the task of finding new rehearsal facilities and financial support.
Thankfully, these are now provided by South Tyneside Health Care Trust and in return for the Trust's generous sponsorship, the Westoe Band performs for hospital events including fetes, fashion shows, church services and patient welfare, and is a popular musical combination within the local community.
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