Over 400 people attended an event at Scarr Bandstand in Sling on Sunday (June 10), despite attempts by vandals to damage the site.

The Festival of Brass was organised by volunteer-run Friends of Scarr Bandstand.

Organiser Alison Neil, said: “We enjoyed blazing sunshine, plenty of food and drink, and wonderful brass band music, despite vandalism on the site.”

Within 24 hours of the temporary roof being erected by Wye Dean Scaffolding on Thursday, vandals had arrived.

“They tore off protective sleeves from the roof supports and added them to the fire they had set in the middle of the bandstand, using forest debris and wooden stakes that were intended for site notices.

The vandals also unscrewed the cap of the large water tank which was providing ballast for the scaffolding tower, allowing gallons of water to flood the site.

“Luckily, Roger Carter, who is in charge of the site, happened to turn up,” Alison added. “He quickly replaced the cap, thereby saving over half the contents. Since there is no water supply at the site, it would have been very difficult to refill the tank, so his quick thinking saved the day.

“The fire did no serious damage, so it was just a matter clearing up. The vandals failed to put a stop to the festival, though. The site is better than ever, with improved parking and a track. And the music was wonderful.

“Lydney Town Band and Pillowell Silver Band performed under the musical direction of Kevin Ford and Ian Whitburn.

“The afternoon was compered by Averil Kear, using the PA system leant by the Forest of Dean Local History Society. Lydney Dial-A-Ride very kindly provided a minibus to help people with walking difficulties to and from the site.”

With five more events this summer, the next is this Saturday, June 16, when Pass the Baton, Wyldwood Arts’ musical play, will be followed by a concert by Lydbrook Training Band.

“Audience members are encouraged to bring an umbrella – hopefully to use as a sunshade,” said Alison.

Call Gloucestershire Police on 101 quoting incident number 336 of June 8 if you have any information about the vandalisdm.