A MUSIC-LOVING pensioner was left brassed off when he was asked to leave a band - because he did not fit in with their new image.

But Radcliffe Brass Band has come to the rescue of Gordon Roscoe by welcoming him into their ranks.

The 75-year-old musician left Eaton's Farnworth and Kearsley brass band on a sour note despite being a member for almost a year.

The former electrical engineer had joined the band to socialise and continue with his baritone playing after the death of his wife from cancer.

He was loaned an instrument and uniform by the group, and spent £70 of his own money on having the baritone refurbished.

Mr Roscoe, who lives in Bromley Cross, Bolton, attended rehearsals each week and took part in concerts and marches with the group. But several weeks ago, Mr Roscoe was told he was no longer welcome.

He said: "Shortly before Christmas the chairman pulled me to one side after a rehearsal and told me that I didn't fit in with the image of the band anymore.

"I was very shocked and upset. I admit that at 75, after 62 years of playing, I'm not as good as I used to be and can have trouble hearing sometimes, but I can still play.

"I always did my job and was never late, but they said the band was looking to improve its image. It was a real blow."

Director of music with Radcliffe Brass Band, Mr Alan Hobson, said: "I had never known anything like this to happen before and I was upset to see Gordon go. Eaton's band have become very competitive and any hearing problem experienced by Gordon could have been translated as a problem by a conductor, but he could have been given a little more help.

"Brass band players are dwindling and Gordon can do a good job. They were harsh with him and could have handled it better. At Radcliffe, we are very happy with him."

Chairman of the Eaton band Chris Barrett said: "The reason for letting Mr Roscoe go is a private band matter."