The Fairey Band held their annual Christmas Concert on the weekend to a full house at the Town Hall, Stockport.

Sharing

The band, conducted by Phil Chalk, shared the stage with their guests, the Poynton Youth Band, conductor by Andy Hirst, with each band providing two solo spots before joining forces for two massed items at the end of the evening.

Impressed

Bass trombonist,Dr John Paul Warder told 4BR: "I've never heard Poynton Youth Band before but I was really impressed with them. They demonstrated some really good technique in their opening number, 'Toccata in D Minor' and showed sensitivity in their rendition of 'Walking in the Air'. We are all looking forward to playing with them again in the near future'."

We have had a lot of initial interest in the Patrons Scheme. It has been designed not only to help secure the future of the band but also reunite many ex members of the bandFairey Band

Awards

As is customary at this event, the band held their annual award ceromony and the awards for 'Bandsman of the Year' and 'Player of the Year' were presented by Alan Lawton MBE.

Bandsman of the Year went to Gary Parker (for the second year running) and Lucy Murphy recieved Player of the Year Award.

Proud

Lucy told 4BR: "I'm really proud to have been voted player of the year. I'm glad I played my solo before I found out though as I was overcome with emotion when my name was read out. What a lovely Christmas present."

Patrons

Looking to the band's future the concert was used to launch 'The Fairey Band Patrons Scheme'.

Mike Eccles has been instrumental in the launch, and he told 4BR: "We have had a lot of initial interest in the Patrons Scheme. It has been designed not only to help secure the future of the band but also reunite many ex members of the band."

More details of the scheme can be found on the bands's website.