A desperate plea has been issued by a leading Bradford brass band which needs new sponsorship to the tune of at nearly £30,000-a-year.

Yorkshire Building Society Brass Band has warned the show may not go on if it does not urgently strike up a new sponsorship deal.

The former European, Yorkshire and All England Masters Champions are struggling to compete on the international circuit after Yorkshire Building Society pulled its £100,000-a-year funding in 2005.

And, the world-renowned group is trying to keep hold of its top-class musicians who are currently playing for their love of music as they are no longer being paid or even getting expenses.

Band manager Allan Holdsworth said the band is surviving on a shoe-string budget and can manage for a further 12 months.

"But, after that, they need help with running costs of around £28,000.

Although the band has retained its Yorkshire Building Society title, after the society supported it financially for 11 years, the name could be changed to back a new sponsor.

At the time the funding was pulled, Yorkshire Building Society spokesman Tanya Mills said the society was sad the sponsorship had come to an end, but said the society would be swapping big sponsorships in support of smaller projects.

Mr Holdsworth, who lives in Wibsey, said: "We are not asking for £100,000, but we need about £28,000 a year.

"We have tried several companies, including Leeds Building Society, but have had no response whatsoever.

"Since I took over in April last year, we have had to cut back and no-one gets paid for anything now.

"If it came to it, we would have to change the name. We have some excellent musicians who come from as far as Huddersfield, Manchester and Sheffield and we even have one player from Gateshead."

The band will raise the roof at two events over the festive period in a bid to drum up some support and funds.

The first concert will take place in Skipton Town Hall on Saturday, December 8, at 7.30pm.

The band will strike up again the following evening at Bingley Arts Centre at the same time. Tickets are available for £10.

For tickets, contact Mr Holdsworth on (01274) 573508.

For more information, log on to www.ybsband.org.uk.