At a recent social gathering, Stalham Brass Band held a presentation ceremony
of long-service awards.
Andrew Washford who plays euphonium in the band was presented with an
engraved glass award for 15 years service.
John Wellings – from the Friends of Stalham Brass Band – presented the
award. As foundation head teacher of Stalham Middle School he was especially
pleased to present the award as Andrew had been taught to play by Gerald
Thirst in a scheme set up between the Stalham Brass Band and the school.
He commended Andrew’s efforts helping new members, as well as serving on the
Band committee, and mentioned how Andrew had once driven through the night to
ensure an early morning Band performance would not be missed.
Director of Music, Tim Thirst, was presented with an engraved presentation
baton and case. The award - marking 10 years as the Band’s Director - also
marked 47 years of service to the Band as a player and committee member.
John Wellings presenting the award said that Tim had now become the second
longest serving member of the Band, beaten only by his father Gerald
Thirst’s record of 76 years. Tim had always put a lot of effort into
tutoring new players - especially youngsters – for over 30 years. Under his
direction the Band had helped children from many schools in the area and had
recently won a top UK award for its outreach work with young people. During
his time as Director of Music the Band has been awarded the Queen’s Golden
Jubilee Award for service to the community and also been honoured by a request
from The Queen to perform for the Royal Family at Sandringham at Christmas, a
combination unequalled by any other band. Stalham was rightly immensely proud
of its Brass Band.
Andrew Washford receives an engraved glass award from
John Wellings
Tim Thirst receives an engraved presentation baton and
case from John Wellings
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