Copthorne Silver Band trumpeting its 110th anniversary (From Redhill And Reigate Life)

Copthorne Silver Band trumpeting its 110th anniversary

4:49pm Monday 3rd September 2012 in Local News

A silver band will be blowing its own trumpet in style this weekend in celebration of a very special milestone.

For this year sees Copthorne Silver Band celebrate its 110th anniversary.

The band is one of the oldest brass bands in Sussex.

It was formed in 1902 when a rich benefactor bought a set of brass instruments for the villagers.

And more than a century later, the band is still going strong.

In fact, it has played on since 1902 – only falling silent during the war years.

Still boasting a similar number of players in its ranks to the outfit as it was in 1926, the members are of all ages, and enjoy performing a variety of music ranging from film and show favourites to the traditional brass band marches and classical selections.

Band secretary Sheila Feasey said: “Band members come from all walks of life and localities, but with a common purpose to enjoy their music and support the community.

“In that connection, they regularly take part in the Copthorne Scout and Guide Gang Show and provide entertainment at village fetes and carnivals and bandstands, and carolling in the wider community.”

To mark their 110th anniversary, the band will be performing a celebration concert at St John's Parish Church, Church Road/Borers Arms Road, Copthorne, this Sunday (September 9), starting at 3pm.

Tickets, priced £5 for adults, with children free, are available from Connells Estate Agents, Copthorne Bank, Copthorne, or band treasurer Robert Feasey on 0771 175 0794.

Donations will be collected at the concert to support the work of St Catherine's Hospice, Crawley.