Neil Fury wondered would there be anyone interested in having a Brass Band Festival in Telford?

There were several meetings and countless phone calls; the ball was really rolling and gaining momentum.

There was no need to look too far for a good cause to support. It was decided that the charity to be supported would be, and still is, The Severn Hospice Appeal. All the bands agreed to play for FREE from the championship bands to the small town bands any proceeds to go to the Hospice fund.

In the first year - 2005, there were 8 bands and £1,000 was raised for the Hospice Appeal. In 2006 we had 11 bands and £2,200 was raised for the Appeal.

The Ironbridge Gorge Brass Band Festival 2007 was a fantastic success with a record number of bands participating and, despite the awful weather, visitor numbers which were well up on the previous year. The festival also raised over £2,000 for Severn Hospice.

2008 was another wonderful success thank to all the wonderful bands giving of their time and expertise we were able to raise the sum of £2500 for the Severn Hospice.

2009 The best year yet. Last Night of the proms tickets were sold out before the concert.

The sum raised this year was £3.500