Fairey (Geneva) continues to rise from the flames following the recent horrendous blaze at their Stockport bandroom.

Touch of irony

The fire caused extensive damage to the rehearsal premises, the loss of instruments, uniforms, memorabilia and banding accessories, but with a touch of irony, the spirit of the band has been ignited to new levels according to Band Chairman Martin Gernon.

Spirit

"There is a wonderful atmosphere and spirit in the band at the moment despite the disaster," Martin told 4BR.

"We have been inundated with offers of help and assistance from literally all over the banding world and that has given us all a huge lift. It shows just how respected and popular a band Fairey is. We have literally risen again from the flames."

We have been inundated with offers of help and assistance from literally all over the banding world and that has given us all a huge liftBand Chairman, Martin Gernon

Well known name

Martin revealed that press attention has also shown just how well known the band name remains both locally and nationally: "I’ve been on the phone or doing interviews non stop. There’s a feature in the Manchester Evening News this week, whilst I’ve spoken to local and national radio stations and given numerous press interviews.

It goes to show just how well known and respected the Fairey name is."

Thanks

Martin added his thanks to the University of Salford who have made rehearsal facilities available to them in the short term, whilst the band is now working towards their forthcoming Brass in Concert appearance.

"Salford University has really helped us out and we are very grateful," Martin added.

"It means we are able to work on our Brass in Concert programme without any problems, whilst we are also making sure that our final concert of the year at the Plaza Theatre in Stockport at the end of the month will double as a thank you for all those people who have come forward to offer us help. We would love to see as many people there as possible."