Ulverston Town Band has been in existence for over 170 years. The earliest documented performance of the band was from the laying of the foundation stone to commence the building of the Sir John Barrow Monument on Hoad in 1850. This monument is a replica of the Eddystone Lighthouse and was erected to honour Ulverston born Sir John Barrow, Second Secretary to the Admiralty.

During World War 2 the band was absorbed into the ATC (Air Training Corps) but returned to being the Town Band shortly after the war ended.

The band had a very successful period during the 1960s and together with carrying out civic duties achieved notable success in the 2nd section under the baton of Grenville Huckerby.

Through the 1970’s and 80’s the band, under the leadership of Richard (Dick) Foden, concentrated on concerts, civic duties and taking music into the community, which forged strong links with many local people and organisations. During this period the band also embarked on the first of several visits to Ulverston's French Twin town of Albert .

Jeff Blenkarn took over the baton in 1992 after playing solo cornet with the band. 1996 saw the band return to the national contest scene after an absence of nearly 30 years. Success followed in 1997 when the band secured a substantial award from the Lottery, which culminated in new instruments and a total refurbishment of the 200 year old band room. At the end of 2003 Jeff stood down from conducting the band after 12 years of sterling work.

Mitchell Rowlandson took over at the start of 2004. After a dip in membership numbers the band withdrew from contesting to concentrate on rebuilding the band and fulfilling community engagements. By 2019 the band was almost back up to full strength thanks to Mitch’s leadership and support. April 2023 saw Mitch decided to step down from his role of conductor after 19 years of dedicated service to the band.

The band is pleased to have appointed Chris Wadeson as our new conductor in June 2023. We are excited to be working with Chris and seeing where the next stage in the bands development takes us. Watch this space!

As with most brass bands the organisation consists of people from all walks of life with ages ranging from 13 to 80.  We have a training band for learners of all ages who progress to the main band when ready which is helping to secure our future. We are also fortunate in receiving excellent support from Ulverston Town Council and the residents of the town.

As in 1850 the band still plays a major role in the life of Ulverston and can regularly be heard and seen performing concerts in and around the town throughout the year and supporting the various town festivals and civic occasions.

For more information contact us via our website www.ulverstontownband.co.uk