The Fairey (Geneva) Band has taken the opportunity to publicly thank the worldwide banding community for their support, good wishes and offers of assistance since the fire that destroyed their famous Stockport bandroom two and a half weeks ago.

Coping with loss

Band Chairman Martin Gernon, told 4BR how the band had got through the immediate aftermath of the fire that destroyed instruments, uniforms and legendary memorabilia.

"It would be wrong to say the last two weeks have been anything but very difficult," he said. "Coping with the loss of our history as well as the total loss of the bandroom facilities, instruments and uniforms is a huge blow to any band, but particularly one with the amount of heritage that Faireys have. To then keep everything going with our preparations for Brass In Concert has been stressful to say the least!"

It would be wonderful to see as many people there as possible and end the year on a real highBand Chairman, Martin Gernon

Invaluable boost

Martin revealed however that it was the multitude of letters, e-mails and messages of support from all corners of the banding world that gave the band an invaluable boost. "It has been amazing, and on behalf of everyone involved at the band, I would like to offer our sincere and heartfelt thanks."

And although there was a small hint of disappointment in his voice when recalling a third successive runner up finish at a major championship at Brass in Concert, it was more than made up by the amazing spirit which has now emerged within the rejuvenated band.

Spirit

"The spirit within the band is incredible, and that was shown last weekend with a stunning performance at Brass In Concert. We have had a great year of contest results and everyone was committed to ensuring we ended the year on a high. Despite not quite winning, we did just that."

New home

Martin added that insurance assessors are currently working with the band and their former sponsors at Fairey to ensure that the band will remain a fixture at the famous Stockport home, although in the meantime the band will seek a temporary home.

He concluded:"Our supporters can rest assured that Faireys will return next year a stronger organisation and totally committed to raising further our considerable standards of performance and achievement."

Special concert

To this end the band will host a special concert at the Plaza Theatre in Stockport on Sunday 28th November at 2.00pm to enable them to thank as many people as possible who have helped the band over the past weeks.

Martin ended:"It would be wonderful to see as many people there as possible and end the year on a real high. Tickets are still available or you can pay on the door, so please come along and enjoy some great entertainment from a very grateful band."