After 76 years in Dorchester, the Durnovaria Silver Band looks set to leave the county town in November if a new practise hall cannot be found. The band has practised at the Fordington Methodist Church Hall, but the church is closing its doors, and the premises are due to be sold at auction. According to Chairman, Colin Lucas, “We are about to become homeless – a situation we have encountered before and one we must overcome if we are to continue. We are seeking to purchase premises from which we cannot be evicted.”
The Durnovaria plays a vibrant part in the life of Dorchester, providing regular concerts at the bandstand in the Borough Gardens and playing at fetes and other events throughout Dorset by request. The players are all volunteers, and take part entirely through their love of music, and willingness to serve their local community. The band is very involved with local schools, encouraging children to take up brass and other instruments.
One option would be to raise sufficient funds to purchase the Fordington Methodist Church Hall, giving the band a permanent home for the first time. If other voluntary organisations are interested in sharing the premises, the band is open to offers, and willing to discuss all options.