AS a dedicated and active member of the local brass band fraternity, I read with dismay the letter by Elizabeth Richards (HAS, Sept 3) regarding the non-appearance of the Barnard Castle Band for a concert in South Park, Darlington.

I think that she may be wrong to award Darlington Borough Council a "black mark" for this. Darlington is one of the few borough councils which offer local brass bands the opportunity to perform in the parks and although the fees offered are modest, it is an opportunity for these bands to perform for the public and for which, we are grateful.

We are amateur musicians and play for our own pleasure as well as that of the public. I cannot believe that the Barnard Castle Band, or indeed any other brass band, would renege on a concert without very good reason. Perhaps an official of the band in question might welcome the opportunity to comment.

After all, there are many brass bands in the Leyburn, Bedale, Northallerton and surrounding areas which would welcome the opportunity to perform in local parks.

Alan Benn, Burneston, Bedale, North Yorkshire.