THE patron of a charity-run band said he is “appalled” after it was evicted from the school it used for rehearsals.

For several years The Colne Endeavour Band has used a hall at Colchester’s St Helena School on Friday evenings.

The band, which has members with disabilities, received 10 days’ notice it would no longer able to hire out the hall, leaving it homeless.

Sir Bob Russell, patron of the band, said other groups who also hired the hall have been evicted and he was “appalled” at the decision by the Sigma Trust.

It took over the running of the school in 2016.

Sir Bob, also a former school governor, added: “This, I regret, is the consequence of the effective privatisation of much of our education system where schools are no longer part of the democratic structure and operate as businesses even though the premises which they operate were built with public money and legally are still publicly owned.

“Sadly, those who run many of our academy trusts have no interest in the wider community and have a selfish agenda.”

Rita Skinner, chairman and trustee of the band's charity, The Colne Endeavour Music Trust, said: “We were given very little notice by the school that they were ceasing the evening lettings.

“It was left to the caretaker to pass on the news to us in the middle of last week, to finish a few days later.

"I am led to believe that we are not the only group that has been affected by the school's decision.”

The band has managed to hire out village halls up to this Friday [May 10] but needs to find a permanent home urgently.

Mrs Skinner added: “The location really needs to be in the Colchester town area, with parking facilities and good access for the disabled.”

Robert Johnstone, the band’s conductor for more than 20 years, said: “I was very cheesed off.

“We were aware things were afoot at St Helena School. Over the last year we have had very short notice when the school is going to close on some Fridays.”

He added the band has an inclusive ethos, with around 40 members, who “absolutely love it”.

The band has been running for 47 years and performs at churches, residential homes, day centres and many community events.

It holds an annual carol service at St. Botolph's Church, Colchester.

Fiona Pierson, heads teacher of St Helena School, said: “St Helena School and indeed the Sigma Trust support their local communities.

“However, at St Helena School we have had a period of personnel change that cannot safely facilitate the lettings schedule, as such we have had to temporarily review the schedule.

“A local decision in response to a local concern and not at all representative of the Sigma Trust or its values.”