Rushden Town Band has been looking back on 2019 — a year in which the Midlands band celebrated not only its 40th anniversary but its first ever season in the Championship Section.

It was a busy 12 months as spokesperson Hilary Hill explained to 4BR: "We've certainly come a long way in 40 years and 2019 was a year to remember."

Busy

Under the baton of conductor Adele Hudson the band produced a very creditable performance at the Midlands Regional Championships in Bedworth as well as competing at the competitive Leicester Open contest.

Meanwhile, a busy concert schedule saw them perform concerts than ranged from the local bandstand in Abington Park and as part of the community 'Celebrate Rushden' week as well as join the celebrated Bach Choir at St Matthew's Church, Northampton for a performance of Berlioz's 'Requiem'.

Outdoor concerts came at Music in the Park at Barnwell Country Park, two special 'Proms Concerts' at Oundle and Hall Park in Rushden and a fantastic community Rushden Heritage Day event.

Community

Hilary added: "This was a glorious day with the sun shining and lots of people enjoying the beautiful sunshine and music by the lake. It is a great honour to be able to support Rushden in these events and the band looks forward to continue to do so in the coming years."

The band also took part in a special Christmas Tree festival playing a mix of 70's music and Christmas music and joining forces with well known celebrity vicar Rev Richard Coles on piano.

A busy year was finally rounded off with concerts in Little Addington, Keysoe, Bede House, Rushden Workingmen's Club (where the band rehearses) and Higham Ferrers for the annual Save the Children Fund concerts arranged by television personality Sue Perkins.

We've certainly come a long way in 40 years and 2019 was a year to rememberHilary Hill

Support

Hilary concluded: "This year, the band chose to support East Northants Community Services who run several food banks as well as the night shelter in Rushden, and we look forward to presenting them with a cheque in the New Year.

The band would like to thank Rushden Town Council for its continued support, without which the band would not look so smart in its resplendent uniforms, and all our supporters who made 2019 such a memorable year. Now we look forward to 2020!"