Members of Whitburn Band, both past and present, along with their families and friends recently joined together for a black-tie dinner to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Scottish band.

The event, which was originally to have taken place in 2020, but had to be postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Proud moment

However, although delayed it still marked a proud moment for the 22nd time Scottish Champion, with its fine history and exciting future celebrated alongside guest speakers including Whitburn's Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs.

On the night, SBBA Life Membership medals were also presented to three Whitburn stalwarts — Evelyn Bradley, Chic Cullen and Iain Fleming, marking their contributions to the band and the wider movement.

Hosted by former conductor Mike Marzella, speeches were given by current Chairperson Charlie Farren, Prof Childs, Associate Conductor Bryan Allen and Carrie Boax, President of the Scottish Brass Band Association.

Excellence

Themes of family, togetherness and excellence were marked — one of which saw the pivotal roles of the likes of Major Peter Parkes recalled, as well as the emergence of a 'family' of ensembles and the successful 'Player Pathway' that is securing the band's future over the next century and more.

Carrie Boax presented the band with a commemorative quaich to celebrate 150 years of achievement to mark the 150th anniversary.