Ratcliffe on Soar IWA Festival 29th August 2009

With a few members missing because of other commitments and work there was only a small team of 22 members. At ‘The Hollingwood’ whilst waiting for the coach to arrive Helen kept everyone amused by trying to catch an escaped pet rabbit that appeared t...o have a death wish by sitting in the middle of Private Drive, unaware of the danger it was in. Thankfully as the coach arrived the rabbit was safely being cuddled by a triumphant Helen before leaving it in the custody of the pub cleaning staff till her return.
Off down the motorway to collect the Eastwood contingency at Plumtre Way before heading off for junction 24 of the M1 and the IWA National Boating Festival at Red Mill Marina. Scheduled to play a static set on the arena prior to the official Festival opening, which was to be completed by the Mayor of Ratcliffe accompanied by the IWA Chairperson marking the opening with speeches from the podium in the arena following the musical programme by the ‘Musketeers’.
Not required for their arena display entertainment until 3:30 the members were able to change and walk around the well arranged variety of stall, stands exhibitions, fast foods outlets and other surrounding entertainment programmes dotted around the site. Lining up in the entrance to the arena the members who had been joined by Drum Major Mark returning from a family wedding contemplated having a rough time marching on the very bumpy and uneven layout before them. But undaunted they continued to provide a very good performance under an extreme lumpy surface and with a blustery wind, however, the watching crowd gave the band a rousing burst of applause at the conclusion.
Now it was time for home and after the Eastwood members had safely disembarked the coach headed back towards Chesterfield and our drop off point at the ‘Hollingwood’ and not forgeting the reuniting of Helen and her new found friend the long haired floppy eared rabbit waiting there. Big praises and commendations to two debutants, Alison and daughter Emily. Well Done to you both.

Return to Gallery