Douglas Borough Council on the Isle of Man recently renamed their Centenary Bandstand in honour of former Borough Engineer & Surveyor, Ian Clague MBE.

Appropriate

In addition to his professional work, Ian, who has retired after 35 years work, also gave outstanding dedication and service to the brass band movement on the island, so the award was wonderfully appropriate.

The Bandstand was erected in 1996, and is used extensively during the summer for concerts and events — especially by brass bands and wedding photographers.

Banding career

Ian started his banding career with the Manx Youth Band in 1971 and after playing solo euphonium for a number of years, was appointed Musical Director in 1981.

Since then he has taken the Manx Youth Band from strength to strength, and was also instrumental in the formation of Manx Concert Brass in 1995.

Dedication

The dedication of the new bandstand in his name was led by the Mayor of Douglas alongside a band made up of players from Manx Youth Band and Manx Concert Brass — conducted by Ian himself!

The memorable event also saw a mini-concert and speeches in his honour.

Ian, who has retired after 35 years work, also gave outstanding dedication and service to the brass band movement on the island, so the award was wonderfully appropriate4BR

Wonderful achievement

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Manx Youth Band and Manx Concert Brass would like to echo the sentiments of everyone by congratulating Ian on his wonderful musical achievements and for his work at Douglas Borough Council."