2011 Engagements
Bolsover Charity Brass Band Entertainment Contest - 10/11th September 2011
It was strange arriving at the Kissingate Leisure Centre, Shirebrook to compete in a brass band contest. Boobs & Brass in a contest??? With Jones & Crossland, Ransomes, Rhodian Brass and William Davis Construction. Yes, over one hundred bandsmen/women had re-united for this unique competition to raise funds for Breast Cancer Campaign. They had rolled back the years and there was a sense of warm nostalgia as they dusted off the old instruments and despite the age defying mix of thinning hairlines and expanding waistlines, you could still sense the rivalry amongst what were once four of the greatest bands in the Midlands area. The only problem was the “Boobies” were up against them!! Then reality returns – this is not a `real` contest – it is for fun – it is to raise funds for charity. It is unbelievable that people have flown in from America, Canada and Pakistan (thanks Martin) to take part in this great day.
As the competition progressed it was clear that we had very stiff competition but the Boobies went out there and did us proud. Black Knight, Hine e Hine,Trio Con Brio with the best looking horn section of the day, Malaguena, then Gloria – not a sight for those of a nervous disposition. I think the lady on the front row who nearly fell off her chair thought it was Mark's real bum!! As one of the adjudicators put it – “Orange Juice” was `fantastic`. The other adjudicator, Alan Wycherley said `shame about the ginger tart on flugel – her playing was average` Brilliant!!
We concluded with American Trilogy – and were just getting into our stride when our half hour was up.
Soon it was decision time and it came as little surprise that the two top bands, filled with many players still performing at Championship level were Ransomes, who collected the Bolsover Charity Entertainment Trophy and William Davis Construction who picked up a great piece of craftsmanship – a specially designed and hand crafted wooden `jigsaw piece` made by Jane`s son, Stephen. Thanks Steve!!
A great time was had by all and the reunion dinner which followed also proved a success with over 200 attendees.
Sunday – the `real` contest – started off a bit hectic but as the day went on things calmed down a bit. We had been asked to assist with stewarding and thanks go to those girls who gave up their time to help Carole.
Due to a couple of hiccups, the contest ran later than expected but this gave Mel, Dave and Jess extra time to maximise their raffle ticket sales. They did a brilliant job and judging by the amount they took I don’t think anyone could have escaped. There were also a few late `flurries` at the merchandise stall much to the delight of Glennis.
At last it was time for the Boobies to do what they do best – entertain the audience who were eagerly awaiting the results. Due to unforeseen circumstances we were without a sop player but thankfully, Alan from Jaguar Rover offered to step in. He donned the pink jacket and appeared as `Alana`. Thank you Alan for being a great sport.
Again, the girls were great – many travelling very long distances just to play for 20 minutes – their commitment is second to none!! We also enrolled a few new `Boobies` who want to be part of future events.
So – it was a great idea – a great turnout by the re-union bands and a great fundraiser.
Thank you Carole for your initiative and hard work and for asking us. Thank you to both Alan`s – the adjudicators for your very generous support and thanks to all the players of the re- united band for supporting the weekend – there would not have been a contest without you all getting back together and thanks to all the “Boobies” for being there – you have raised another substantial amount towards finding the cure.
The only sad thing is that those four great bands are not still together playing in the Midland Area!!!
