Rousing End to Final Concert!

The strains of ‘Land of Hope and Glory’ echoed across Marine Parade last week, marking the end of a very successful season of summer concerts for the band, a season which had begun early in July with the opening of the refurbished shelters.

As ever, a large and appreciative crowd provided strong support, particularly enjoying the regular children’s spot, when youngsters are invited to come forward and join the band in playing a wide range of percussion instruments. For this final concert, Musical Director John Powell chose ‘Is this the way to Amarillo?’ and led his young volunteers on a conga to the band’s lively accompaniment and the obvious delight of the audience.

Collections during these summer concerts have been very encouraging and will help provide the band with financial security through the winter months. Throughout

Lucky winners Heather & Sue

the series, raffle tickets were sold in aid of band funds, organised by Val Mahoney, and it certainly proved a hit with holidaymakers. The draw took place at the end of the final concert and the lucky prize winners were:

1^st prize (£150) Ian Kirk from Alvaston, Derby – ticket number 1259

2^nd prize (£100) Sue May from Crewkerne –  ticket number 1291

3rd prize (£50) Heather Prior from Lyme Regis – ticket number 0951

Before the final piece, MD John Powell expressed thanks to all who had supported the band throughout the summer concerts. Gifts were presented to regular collectors Steve Mahoney and Ralph Herbert, to Ken and Ann Courtney for selling the raffle tickets and to band member Catherine Voysey, playing in her final concert before concentrating on her A level studies.

Following ‘Land of Hope and Glory,’ the audience were invited to link arms for the singing of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ bringing the summer season to an appropriate close. We now now return to our regular Tuesday practices and our next concert is at Seaton Town Hall on Friday 7^th October. Tickets are available from Seaton Town Hall box office, Monday – Saturday from 10 – 1 p.m. or from band members.

The Training Band has continued to rehearse throughout the summer and anyone of any age interested in joining them will be warmly welcomed. We also have vacancies for experienced players and full details of both groups can be found on this website.

IMAGES OF SUMMER 2011