Bigger bands show pledge

From the Echo, first published Thursday 2nd Oct 2003.

THE organiser of Bridport's military band week has been overwhelmed with plaudits for the spectacular event, which culminated in a tattoo on the town's football club ground.

Martin Davison, bandmaster for the Wessex Military Band, promises an even bigger and better spectacle in 2004.

"Next year's show will consist of single concerts at Bridport Arts Centre from Tuesday, September 21, to Thursday, September 23, a massed bands parade through the streets of Bridport on Saturday, September 25, and the Bridport Military Tattoo at the football ground on September 26," he said.

"We hope to make up for the disappointment of the 76th US Army Band being unable to attend this year and to bounce back with the biggest show yet with nine bands."

These will include the Antwerp Police Band from Belgium, the Lippstadt Brass Band, Zweibrucken Military Band and the Schutzenverein Haus Dumon from Germary, Konopiska Fire Brigade Band from Poland, massed pipes and drums from the 1st Battalion the Royal Gurkha Rifles and the Portiethen Pipe Band from Scotland.

England will be represented by Bridport's own Wessex Military Band, the Yorkshire Volunteers Band and the Horndean Band.

Mr Davison said the Wessex band was grateful to the people of Bridport and surrounding villages who supported the events.

Sponsorship is now being sought for next year's event, along with people who can cook or provide accommodation or food. Call the office on 01308 425010.

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