Come along to free concert to mark Royston Town Band’s 150th anniversary

Royston Town Band in 1932. (Image: Archant)

Royston Town Band is inviting present and past members, along with friends and supporters to the occasion on Saturday, October 11.

It will include a musical piece from each of the 15 decades of the band’s existence and will feature some of the group’s past conductors.

Bass player and publicity officer Owen Simons said: “It is a really very special occasion. I think it is a big achievement for a brass band to be reaching 150 years - we are very proud. The band is currently going from strength to strength.”

The bash is being held at Royston Parish Church from 7.30pm, where there will be a collection for the band’s New Bandroom Fund, a raffle and refreshments served up during the interval.

“We would like as many people from Royston, old players, old friends, anybody who has been to a concert to come and fill up the church,” said Owen.

During its history Royston Town Band, which currently has around 35 members, has had many names. It started out as the Royston Volunteer Band, later changing to the Royston Teetotal Band, followed by the Royston Military Band before settling on its current name.

Formed by the noted Roystonian William Hinkins, the band had its headquarters at a number of locations in the town until, in 1960, it achieved a longstanding aim - the building of its own practice room behind the Manor House Club.

When the Manor House in Melbourn Street was sold last year, the band had to move out of its home of 50 years and look for a new base.

It is hoped that construction on land at the rear of Tannery Drift School will begin shortly and the band is continuing to raise funds for the bandroom. A total of £40,000 has already been raised for the building but a further £10,000 is needed to install toilet facilities and sewerage.

To donate and for more information on the band visit {http://www.roystontownband.org.uk|www.roystontownband.org.uk} or call Owen on 01763 246929.