AN ICONIC Dorchester band could be forced to pack up its instruments as it faces the prospect of becoming homeless.

The Durnovaria Silver Band, which was formed 76 years ago, is set to lose its existing practise hall in November.

The band has practised at the Fordington Methodist Church Hall since 2005, after their previous base at the Salvation Army also shut, but the church is closing its doors with the premises due to be sold at auction.

Chairman Colin Lucas said the band faced uncertainty about the future of the hall and were hoping to secure something permanent so they are not faced with the same problem again.

He said: “We are about to become homeless – a situation we have encountered before and one we must overcome if we are to continue. We are seeking to buy premises from which we cannot be evicted.”

The Durnovaria Silver Band has played at countless community events over the years including concerts at the Borough Gardens, fetes and major celebrations.

It currently has around 30 members, ranging from teenagers to musicians in their 80s, as well as a training band for youngsters.

Mr Lucas said the group had not ruled out fundraising to buy their current home when it goes up for sale and was interested to hear from other groups who may be interested in sharing the premises.

However, he said it was also looking at any other potential venues that would be suitable for the band.

Mr Lucas said: “We have had one or two offers but it’s got to be somewhere where we can store surplus equipment and music and it’s got to be wind and waterproof.

“That’s actually as important as the playing area to practice. We are exploring every possibility.”

Mr Lucas said he hoped a solution could be reached to ensure the band’s long association with the town could continue.

He said: “I think the town likes us – it has put up with us for over 75 years so if we had somewhere permanent it could look forward to another 70 odd years.”

Upcoming events for the band include the Dorchester Armed Forces and Veterans Day on Saturday July 7 and a concert at the Dorford Centre from 7.30pm on Monday July 16, where the group will play alongside their counterparts from Dorchester’s German twin town of Lubbecke.