Our choir extends its reach not only to our choir members, wives and families but also out into the wider community. This is ably demonstrated by Wesley Pierpoint (2nd tenor), former member of the military and the police who continues his service ethic at Kings Mill Hospital. He was recently recognised for his dedicated support by being awarded a certificate and badge for ten years’ voluntary service. Wes is a true character, always bright and friendly and he always has a joke or anecdote to tell you. Wes and his wife Judith are members of the congregation at St. Albans Church, Forest Town and he is very proud of his Irish roots. We are proud to have him in our choir. Well done Wes and thank you.
The Remembrance weekend was both poignant and exciting. We were proud to see Justin Agah- Gilbert a former member of our Bass section honoured as a representative of the Royal Airforce at the televised Royal Albert Hall Festival of Remembrance attended by the Royal Family and prominent politicians.
Al Roberts (Baritone) sent a selfie of himself, his brother and colleague R.A.F. veterans at the Cenotaph march past which he attends every year..
We are so very proud of both guys representing the solemn memory of their fallen colleagues.
Our Supporters’ Group has been hard at work creating a range of social events for choir members and their families. Of course, not everyone attends each event, but rest assured that many choristers and families take up the invitations and thoroughly enjoy the social aspects of our choir.
The first event, on 14th October, was a wildlife presentation by Phil Millns (Bass) held at Trinity Methodist Church in Mansfield Woodhouse. Phil is president of the Mansfield RSPB and his encyclopedic knowledge of local wildlife was a pleasure to behold. His photographs of birds, insects and mammals were simply outstanding having sharp detail and wonderful colour. He narrated the photographs with facts and anecdotes about the location and behaviour of the subjects photographed which made for a different and pleasant evening. Thank you, Phil.,
The second event was arranged by Marilyn Mansfield which was a lunch at the Hostess restaurant. Thirty current and former members attended and over a super carvery lunch chatted about the choir, family matters etc. etc. The opportunity to mix in this manner is one of the “glues” which hold our choir together. A leisurely and pleasant meeting for everyone.
On the 23rd of October 24 folk met at the Nottingham Greyhound racing track in Colwick and had an exciting and, for some, profitable evening. The meal was very tasty and the efficiency of the system of placing bets at the table was amazing to experience. Cheers from those who had backed the winning dog were often heard. The silence of those losing was pretty evident as well. After 12 races I was £40 down but it was value for money for two when you consider the work involved and the very pleasant facilities overlooking the racetrack.
The November breakfast event was held on 7th November. This was the first time it was held at Trinity Methodist Church in Mansfield Woodhouse as the former venue the Anchor Centre in Skegby has closed. Again, our ladies worked extremely hard to provide breakfasts for over 60 folks. Raffle, tombola and cake stands were popular and a good cash injection for choir funds was raised. Well done ladies, this is hard work and is much appreciated by everyone. The singing included Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and to mark the Remembrance weekend, Let There Be Peace On Earth and Tell My Father.
The Christmas meal this year is once again at The Hostess Restaurant in Mansfield Woodhouse. Over 100 people will attend on 7th December. The planned but informal sing is always popular and Christmas seems to be kicked off by this celebration.