In a brilliant way to celebrate its new corporate sponsorship, Forest of Dean Stone Firms welcomed Lydbrook Band to its Barnhill Quarry to give a rather unique celebratory performance.

Flintstones

Kitted out in hard-hats, hi-vis vests and wellies, all 27 players and MD Ian Holmes made their way down to the quarry floor to perform the music to 'The Flintstones' — the rather witty request from the firm's Managing Director Nick Horton.

As the sun set on a scorching evening in Gloucestershire, they also gave a rousing rendition of Elgar's 'Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1'.

Extraordinary

Commenting on both the performance and the sponsorship agreement, Nick Horton told 4BR: "We've had lots of fun organising this. With such a unique alliance, we wanted to do something extraordinary to mark our association.

A performance in our quarry seemed like the ideal way; natural stone with music — and fortunately, all the band were game.

We thought the acoustics would be impressive but everyone was stunned by the sound; so much so, they want to come back to put on a full concert performance, so watch this space for 'Proms in the Quarry'!"

Beneficial

He added: "Our stoneworks were established in 1902 and the band formed in 1923, so this shared heritage, along with our common values of quality and professionalism make for an exciting and beneficial partnership.

We're looking forward to watching the band perform but nothing will beat the Barnhill Quarry sessions!"

We thought the acoustics would be impressive but everyone was stunned by the sound; so much so, they want to come back to put on a full concert performance, so watch this space for 'Proms in the Quarry'!MD, Nick Horton"

Generous support

In response Band Secretary, Robert Morgan said: "We are extremely grateful to Forest of Dean Stone Firms for their generous support. We have been well-supported by local businesses over the past 94 years, but this is the first time that we have had major sponsorship for an extended period.

This partnership will allow us to purchase new instruments for our thriving Training Band as well as refurbish a couple of our Besson tubas. To perform in the quarry was an extraordinary experience.

The natural acoustics were incredible and the recording sounds as good as any concert hall or studio."