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Facebook Marketplace: The Pros and Cons for Buyers and Sellers
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The Decline of Brass Bands: Why You Should Care About This Vanishing Heritage


A Brass Trumpet playing in a Brass Band

Throughout my childhood, I listened to my grandad as he regaled long, awe-inspiring tales of his days working at the coal face. Fourteen years down your local pit will leave you with no end of stories…from gas leaks to cave-ins. 6-year-old me was fascinated by these tales, as most young boys would be. I eagerly listened as he told me about his experiences, trials and tribulations as a miner.


It’s safe to say that mining communities were some of the most resilient and tightly-knit in England during the 1970s and 1980s. Endless graft and thankless work bonded the miners and the rest of their community followed closely behind.


One of the most crucial parts of a colliery was its brass band.


Brass bands were particularly popular amongst miners. Even today, events like the Durham Miners Gala see thousands of miners pour into the city to proudly honour their heritage. The country's finest brass bands take pride of place.


Unfortunately, despite the nostalgia that surrounds them, brass bands are dying out.


The simple answer as to why this is concerns a lack of interest. Several developments, following their heyday in the 1970s and 80s, have led to brass bands’ gradual decline. One of these is the upsurgence of popular music streaming platforms, such as Spotify and YouTube.


Preserved Headgear at the Haig Coal Mining Museum
Image by Mick Garratt

In the past, mining communities enjoyed listening to brass music, but as more and more collieries closed, their brass bands also went the way of the dodo. The few brass bands that have survived are living precariously—they’re low on members, short on funds, and they’re struggling to gather an audience.


The lack of interest from younger generations is a real shame. Brass bands are such an important part of our heritage in the UK, and to see them slowly die a painful death is something I struggle with.


Why should you care?


Chances are that most of you reading this will have never had an interest in brass music. But perhaps it doesn’t have to be that way for the next generation.


The first few years of our lives are the most formative. It’s a time when we’re more impressionable, quicker at learning, and hungrier for creativity than at any other point in our existence. I’m not saying that all children should be indoctrinated into brass bands, nor should they be forced to learn a particular instrument, but there have been significant studies carried out by major universities and institutions that prove the profound beneficial effects that learning a musical instrument can have on a child’s development. Statistics show that it can make them more creative, more adaptable and more sociable. Those are some great skills to harness, wouldn’t you agree?


These skills can be gleaned from learning to play any musical instrument, from the piano to the electric guitar to the drums. So why do I recommend brass?


Learning to play a brass instrument helps to strengthen your lungs. In several cases, and contrary to popular belief, it actually improves breathing conditions such as asthma, as it teaches you how to control your breathing and your airflow.


Additionally, the social skills that come from playing in a band are invaluable. The brass band community is ever so welcoming to new, younger players. No one will ever put you down for not being ‘good enough’ or ‘not learning quickly enough’. To this day, I clearly remember my first experience with an adult brass band. All week, my 9-year-old-self had been nervous. I questioned myself on whether they would like me, how intimidated I would surely feel… within that first two-hour long Friday night rehearsal, I already felt a part of something special.


That’s what a brass band is and that’s everything it stands for. A brass band is a family.


Facebook Marketplace: The Pros and Cons for Buyers and Sellers

Facebook Marketplace: The Pros and Cons for Buyers and Sellers

24 April 2025

Ellie Waiton

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Facebook Marketplace has become a go-to platform for buying and selling items locally. With millions of users and a wide range of listings, it's easy to see why people turn to it instead of traditional selling platforms. But like anything, it has its ups and downs. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons from both a seller’s and buyer’s point of view.


White Facebook logo tilted on a gradient blue background, casting a subtle shadow. Minimalist and modern design elements.

Pros for Sellers


1. It’s Free to Use


Unlike some other platforms, Facebook Marketplace doesn’t charge listing fees or take a cut from your sales, making it a great option for casual sellers.


2. Local Audience


Because it connects you with people in your area, it’s easier to sell items quickly without the hassle of shipping.


3. Quick and Easy Listings


You can post an item in just a few minutes, complete with photos, descriptions, and pricing.


4. Wide Reach


With so many people using Facebook daily, your items can get a lot of visibility quickly.


Cons for Sellers


1. Scams and Fake Buyers


Scams are common. From fake payment screenshots to phishing links, sellers need to stay alert.


2. Unreliable Buyers


People may agree to buy something and never show up, or they might go quiet after expressing interest.


3. Haggling and Low Offers


You’ll often get offers far below your asking price, even when you’ve already priced your item fairly.


4. No Guarantees or Support


If something goes wrong, Facebook support can be difficult to reach and offers limited resolution tools.


Pros for Buyers


1. Affordable Prices


Many items are secondhand and priced to sell quickly, which means you can snag some serious bargains.


2. No Shipping Fees


Because most items are picked up locally, you don’t have to worry about paying for shipping.


3. Useful for Everyday Items


From furniture to electronics to kids’ toys, Marketplace can be a goldmine for practical purchases.


4. Easy Communication


You can message sellers directly through Facebook, making the buying process simple and fast.


Cons for Buyers


1. Risk of Scams


Just like sellers, buyers need to be cautious of scams, such as fake products or misleading listings.


2. Unresponsive Sellers


Some sellers post items and then disappear, or they don’t respond to questions.


3. No shows


Buyers can waste time arranging a meetup only for the seller to cancel last-minute or not show up at all.


4. Lack of Buyer Protection


Unlike platforms like eBay or Amazon, there’s very little recourse if you buy something and it turns out to be faulty or different from what was advertised.


Final Thoughts on Facebook Marketplace


Facebook Marketplace can be a great tool whether you're trying to make some quick cash or find a good deal. It’s convenient, easy to use, and cost effective, but it’s not without its flaws. Whether you're buying or selling, always stay cautious, meet in safe locations, and trust your gut. With the right approach, Facebook Marketplace can be both a practical and rewarding experience.


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