High profile celebrity supporters for Black Dyke Heritage Appeal  

Launched in July following the successful Heritage Lottery Funded opening of its Black Dyke Heritage Centre, the list of high profile heritage supporters is led by opera star Lesley Garrett, alongside music entrepreneur Michael Eavis, former Labour politician Ed Balls, Richard Morrison, chief music critic of The Times newspaper, and long term supporter and entertainer Russ Abbott.  

Russ Abbot has always been 'a huge fan' of the band and former Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer Ed Balls was thrilled to support the appeal after he said the band had provided 'the set of the festival' at Glastonbury earlier this year — an opinion shared by Festival founder Michael Eavis. Yorkshire born opera star Lesley Garrett, who has performed with the band and highly respected critic Richard Morrison have also become high profile supporters. 

Commenting on the news, Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs said: "Many will have seen the new Heritage Centre featured on national and regional television as well as through a huge variety of social media outlets. The response has been amazing, and shows both the affection and artistic respect the band commands. To have such high profile star supporters gives us a major boost as we carry on the development of a project that will have a lasting impact and legacy." 

To help with the band's heritage work go to: 
https:/­/­www.justgiving.com/­campaigns/­charity/­blackdykeband-1855/­our-heritage 

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