The spirit of the past in our close-knit community was re-awakened as the pleasant notes of the New Buckenham Silver Band wafted across the locality from St Edmund’s on Midsummer’s Day. Directed by Sam the band’s members were cosily accommodated beneath a marquee and played a wide-ranging medley of musical pieces orchestrated for brass-band, including marches, songs from shows and special pieces, like the one for three trombones. We should like to thank those who make the much admired cakes and the little band of helpers especially eagle- eyed Gabi, and our thanks too to Peter (and Paul!) for mowing the meadow impeccably for the event.

A goodly number of folk, some with children, came by to listen to the concert, many remarking how pleasant and enjoyable it was to relax – with a little refreshment – and meet and chat with other folk on a summer’s afternoon. And what was the spirit of the past? In the early decades of the 20th century it was traditional for the bands of the Friendly Societies (the Oddfellows or the Foresters) to march down or up the Norwich Road to church. A lovely tradition that has since passed into history. By the way, the NBSB rehearses every Thursday evening and is always looking to recruit new members, especially of the new generation.

We should like to thank all those that made our ‘new venture’ possible by supporting the event in the organization and attending a most enjoyable community event. Thanks to your enthusiasm we have added another £140 towards the new project.   Margaret & John Webster and our dedicated team.