GARDEN PARTY 2009

On Saturday the 25th of July many members, their partners and friends, gathered in the Hampshire Village of Steep for their Annual Garden Party at the home of Helen, Owen and Morf Muir.

The weather was very kind and the sun shone throughout. The food was superb with a buffet, barbeque and desserts all wonderfully presented.

It was good to meet in such a social way and relax together. The event traditionally marks the end of the season for the band and all members look forward to the first practice of a new season in September.

A huge vote of thanks is due to Morf, Helen, Annharrad and Owen for opening their home up and providing all the food... English Summers!! More photographs appear in the 'Album' section.

FAREWELL TO OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The last band rehearsal of the 2008/2009 season also marked the last occasion that our Executive Officer Major Adrian Allman, would act in that capacity. Major Allman and his wife Clare are to take charge of the Salvation Army work in the city of Gloucester and will very shortly be moving home to that area. Adrian has been Executive Officer to the band for the past three and a half years and has seen it develop and grow in that time and has helped guide it through some interesting times. His support and encouragement have been greatly appreciated by the band and he will be sadly missed. The band wanted to say thank you and mark the service he has given so a presentation took place at the rehearsal. In the accompanying photograph Bandmaster Chris Kennett thanked him for his considerable input and Jill Hulme presented him with a leather bound bible and a photograph of the band. We all collectively wish Adrian and Clare all the very best for their future together in Gloucester and beyond!

Last Rehearsal of The Season

On Monday July the 6th the band met for its last rehearsal before the summer break. It was a very special rehearsal with not just the serving band members but also some invited guests. Almost 60 members rehearsed a variety of music from modern to classical; composers from Heaton to Downie.

Bandmaster Chris Kennett was joined by Associate Conductor John Hanchett and guest conductor Geoffrey Nobes, Geoffrey being a former bandmaster of Portsmouth Citadel but more relevantly the son of founding Fellowship Bandmaster, Harold Nobes.

Following the practice there was a great buffet of home made food and a lovely period of socialising between the members, guests and some partners. Photographs appear in the album section of this site.

We now look forward to the end of season barbecue on the 25th July!