20th February 2010 :: Annual Awards Presentation Night.

After a busy 2009 it was time to reflect on what was a year of babies, one or two new and old faces back in the Band and a lot of positive fund raising including the second self-produced CD made in the new bandroom. The awards evening was held, as last year, within the White Lion Pub in Crewe where a fine selection of food and ales were consumed by all.

During the afternoon many of the Band took part in the Bowling Challenge - now the most sought-after cup of the year. Last year's winner Carl Ball had to hand the coveted cup over to Phil Edworthy ( Strimmer ), "well done Strim".

The evening gave the oppurtunity for the Band's players to vote on their choice of "Bandsman of the Year" - this year's winner was Carl Ball. Carl's efforts on the committee and in producing the Band's two recent CDs have been outstanding, so thank you Carl and well done.

As Musical Director of the Band I get to make the award for the most "Outstanding Player of the Year". With such a loyal and stable band this award can be very difficult but looking back at 2009 one player stood out for me - the winner has also won a soloist prize during the year too. This year's winner was Sarah Sparkes, the Band's flugel horn player. Sarah juggles a busy teacher's job along with a demanding home - family life to deliver first class playing for the Band. Congratulations Sarah.

My thanks to all involved with the Band and here's to another great year.

Jef Sparkes MD