Gillingham Imperial Silver recently celebrated a successful 2015 at their annual Christmas concert.

Awards

The town's Mayor presented their annual awards which went to Jess Hudson as the 'Most Improved under-18 in the Senior Band', Sarah Barnes ('Highest Rehearsal Attendance'), and Tom Malleson ('Greatest Contribution').

Megan Bokker received the 'Most Improved Player' in the Training Band with Ellie Stiles taking the same award in the Beginner's Band. The 'Youngest Player' Award was won by Maddie Currie. (All above)

Contest high

The Dorset band ended 2015 on a high after their recent Third Section win at the Wessex BBA contest in Bournemouth to round off a year that started with the loss of five regular players.

However, the return of flugel star Michelle Hudson after a 16 year sabbatical playing in Cornwall, alongside Elaine Laurence, Sam Vaughan and Clare Chapman has boosted things once more.

Delighted

Band Manager Tom Malleson told 4BR: "We are delighted to welcome back Michelle alongside her mum Jackie on solo horn and daughter Jess, who at only 14 is a great young talent on solo cornet."

He added; "Elaine is also joining her sister Mary to boost our cornet section, Clare has been a regular helper for a while and Sam is another promising young cornet player. Great thanks go to our stalwart Marcus Adams, who teaches most of the band's youngsters and gives help and support to those joining the back row."

The band also recently held a very successful beginner's open evening. Organised by training band percussionist Lottie Dean as a school project, the evening attracted over 20 people, of which nine are now regular members4BR

Beginners group

The band also recently held a very successful beginner's open evening. Organised by training band percussionist Lottie Dean as a school project, the evening attracted over 20 people, of which nine are now regular members.

After a year in which the band also welcomed German friends Musikzug Viktoria Hille and Cory's Glyn and Helen Williams for a great concert, the band is looking forward to 2016, starting with an exciting concert in February and the West of England Championship in Torquay in March.