Last Sunday at the Ring o' Bells pub in Marple, Cheshire, a scratch band performed under the baton of Duncan Beckley to raise money and awareness for two charities: Help for Heroes and the Charles Ingham Band Room Fund (Marple).

Stars on parade

Amongst the many bandsmen performing from bands such as Fairey (Geneva) Band, Leyland, Glossop Old, Marple, Hawk Green, Hazel Grove, Crewe Co-op and Bollington. Solos were provided by Ian Culross (Cornet) and David Thornton (Euphonium). Garry E. Cutt was also on hand to conduct a few pieces and the total amount raised was £415.

Warm and dry

The only downside was the weather, although Mark Singleton, the pub landlord and Marple Band's solo trombonist, had erected extra marquees not every one stayed warm and dry!

Warren Wood Primary School Band performed during the interval conducted by the ex-Black Dyke and Faireys Baritone player, Peter Christian.