A fire has destroyed Fairey (Geneva) Band’s rehearsal facility in Stockport
Lost
4BR has been informed that although the music library has been saved, instruments, percussion equipment, mutes, uniforms and over 70 years of the band’s priceless memorabilia has been lost.
Band Chairman Martin Gernon told 4BR: "This is a huge blow to the band, but one we will recover from. The fire brigade has informed us that the blaze started outside the bandroom, but the cause as yet is unknown."
Irreplaceable
The current English National champion has rehearsed on the Williams Fairey Engineering site for over 70 years and the bandroom was filled with mementoes of their numerous successes.
"That’s the great loss," Martin added. "Thankfully, nobody was hurt and we can replace instruments, mutes and uniforms. The library was saved by the prompt action of the fire brigade — but the history is irreplaceable."
Anyone who knows Fairey (Geneva) Band will know that we will never be beaten by something like thisBand Chairman, Martin Gernon
Determination
The determination to ensure Fairey (Geneva) is not halted by the fire is clear – and helped in no small part by the numerous calls Martin has already received with offers of practical assistance from all over the country.
"We have a concert tonight in Wrexham, which will definitely go ahead, thanks to the Northop Band making all their percussion equipment available to us. I’ve received numerous telephone calls, and I can’t thank people enough. We will see where we are after the weekend."
Brass in Concert
Martin has confirmed however that the fire will not stop the band taking part in Brass in Concert at The Sage in Gateshead in two weeks time, even if their performance is laced with a touch of black humour.
"We’ll be there even if we have to appear in the odd fireman’s helmet! Anyone who knows Fairey (Geneva) Band will know that we will never be beaten by something like this."
Help
Offers of help and assistance should be directed to Martin on 07545 025628 or at marting2004@hotmail.com
