BAND APPOINTS A PRESIDENT

The bands annual dinner and prize presentation was held on Saturday 22^nd October at the Pavillion Restaurant in Port St Mary.

Before the dinner was served, Rodney Evans, our Musical Director, gave a resume of the years events. During the year there had been some 50 engagements for the band, in addition to rehearsals. Mention was made of 2 recent fund raising concerts, one for the Samantha Ash Fund and the other being Gina’s concert for the band’s building fund. Both events were very successful.

Reference was made to the sad loss during the year of Norman Gale (Band Trustee) and former player Herbie Crosbie.

Members of the Supporters Club were thanked for their support during the year. The band’s building project has passed the first hurdle, and planning permission has been granted. The band hope to progress on to the next stage shortly, however it is unlikely that any building will take place before Spring 2012.

Following an excellent dinner, guest of honour David Horsfield spoke about his experiences in the band world, including his time performing with the best bands in the UK. He finished up by praising the Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band for its considerable community spirit and also the band members commitment.

Following his speech, David Horsfield was delighted to present the band’s awards for 2011.

However, this year, before the usual awards could be made there was a special appointment to be made. In its long history, the band has never had (to our knowledge) a President. During a meeting earlier in the year, the band decided that there should be a figurehead and that we should appoint someone who is highly respected within the band to be president. It was agreed by all present and then at a meeting of the full band that Edwin Cubbon, who joined the band in 1935, and is still a playing member, should be asked to become President. We were all delighted that Edwin accepted. Edwin has played for 76 years!

In recognition of this appointment, the band presented to Edwin a pocket watch, engraved with Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band, the bands logo and PRESIDENT. The members of the band congratulated Edwin.

Moving on to the annual awards:

Ralph Teare Award for Achievement presented to Pat Collins

Tommy Moore award for Improvement presented to Rhianne Charnley

Band Person of the Year presented to Pat Collins

Len Arnold Award for Attendance presented to Margaret Collins

Soloist of the Year presented to Arthur Christian

Collins Cup for Support presented to Marjorie Kelly

Laa Column Killey Most Improved Player presented to Richard Payne

Tommy Watterson Award for Long service presented to John Moore

During the evening a raffle took place, organised by Gina Fappiano and there was also a musical quiz arranged by Pat and Margaret Collins.

The evening was a great success and enjoyed by everyone present. The Port St Mary Golf Club were thanked for providing an excellent meal.

Report by Simon Court 28/11/2011