Backworth Colliery Band
Based in North Tyneside, close to Whitley Bay, the band was formed in 1886.
The band was formed as a social element of the surrounding mining works. The starting of the band was partly funded by concerts, the earliest dating back to 1871.
The band, like so many other colliery bands, was originally a windband but became wholly brass in the 1920s before becoming known as the Backworth Collieries Workmens' Prize Band between the 1950s and 1970s. Membership of the band was traditionally drawn from the mining community but as mining works have diminished membership has changed and draws on players from all works of life.
The band is currently a busy, friendly, family orientated Third Section band who rehearse in Backworth Social Club on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. There are currently vacancies for front row cornet and Eb bass but welcome players of any instrument to attend rehearsals.