A WALTHAMSTOW-based brass band’s appearance in the final of a national competition is under threat due to a funding shortage.

East London Brass, based at Trinity Church, Orford Road, celebrates its centenary this year and hopes to represent the southern counties at the National Brass Band Championships in Harrogate.

But after scooping first place in the second section qualifying stages, their attendance at the event – dubbed “the brass band FA Cup” – is now in doubt unless they can raise a total of £4,000 by September.

Dan Gibbons, chairman for East London Brass, said: “Most of our funding comes from being asked to play bandstands in the East End area.

“But we've been finding that local councils are having spending cuts and it's been harder and harder to secure commission, even in the royal parks, which used to be a very safe bet.”

And if the funding shortage continues, East London Brass could face losing money for running costs such as buying new music and repairing instruments.

The band now plans to hold a number of concerts in the run up to the championships in Harrogate including a special fund-raising performance at Trinity Church on August 20.

Starting at 8pm, the concert is free but donations are being requested to help the band on its way. Mr Gibbons added: “Not to go to the National Finals on the grounds of costs is devastating.

“Things are tighter now but at the same time, we've been increasing in success. It's taking its toll on our band coffers.”

The band, many of whose members are based in and around Walthamstow, will also be performing in St James's Park on August 15 from 3pm and in Lloyd Park on August 16 from 2pm.

East London Brass was established in 1909 and performs at concerts and competitions around London and the UK.

For more information, visit east-london-brass.co.uk