Busy weekend in Saughall!
Monday 5th Jul 2004, the wee hours
The Band paid 2 visits to Saughall over the weekend; on Saturday the Main Band led the parade through the village followed by a few musical interludes at the village fete then, on Sunday evening, the Training Band (ably assisted by some Main Band members) took part in the local Hymnathon. Saturday’s march and fete were overshadowed by the threat of rain, but the bad weather held off and the parade followed a route that seems to get longer each year (or is it the band getting older and therefore noticing it more?). Some of the narrow streets called for impromptu reorganisation of the Band’s marching formation in order to squeeze past the parked cars, but the obstacles were successfully negotiated without serious injury! A small section of the Band then provided a fanfare for the arrival on the field of the main procession, subsequently rejoining their colleagues to entertain the crowds with a varied programme of light music. Sunday evening saw the Training Band providing the music for the Saughall Hymnathon. Conducted by the Main Band’s musical director, Mr Derek Mitchell, it received its normal warm reception from the locals. As always, the Saughall weekend is renowned for the warm hospitality that the Band receives, and thanks must go to the organisers of the weekend’s events for making both the Main Band and Training Band feel so welcome, as well as keeping them supplied with lots of delicious refreshments! This particular evening was a cause for both celebration and sadness; celebration of the return from her gap year of the Band’s euphonium player, Christine C, sadness caused by the departure from the Band of Helen Clowes. Helen is a founder member of the Training Band, and has also progressed to play 2nd Baritone in the Main Band. She will continue to play tenor horn with Upton Concert Band, and everyone connected with the City of Chester thanks her for her efforts and wishes her well in her future endeavours.