David Treadwell-  chair of the Neighbourhood Forum, describes the wonderful concert that took place at St Mary’s church as it opened its doors and arms to the whole village and beyond last weekend.

Birmingham Brass Band at St Mary’s Church, Acocks Green

 “It gave us all another opportunity to celebrate the community and ourselves.  The themes were most appropriate and the chance to witness all the hidden talent in the village, from the Village Primary Schools, up and coming recorder players, the fantastic Ninestiles School Swing Band, The Scouting & Guide inspired songs, all the careful efforts taken with the themed flower displays, the evening concert from The City of Birmingham Brass Band, the refreshments & Tea Room, we could go on but we must not forget the friendly welcome from all those present on this special occasion. Sunday saw a special Festival Service were we were joined by members of our Uniformed Youth Organisations, who presented and paraded their flags and Standards. Also the opportunity for a number of members to be enrolled during the service.

On a point of general interest, we had an opportunity to speak to the Brass Band, and they informed us that the band was originally formed in 1944, by the aircraft manufacturing factory at Castle Bromwich, who had the highest output of any UK aircraft factory producing 20 Lancasters and 320 Spitfires a month. After the war the band became part Fisher & Ludlow, later becoming the Pressed Steel Fisher Band. In 1976, the band was formally recognised by the City Council for its major contribution to civic life, and the band adopted its present title, the City of Birmingham Brass Band. Since then, it has been entertaining audiences in major concert venues across the West Midlands, as well as abroad. They are currently based at The Joseph Chamberlain Six Form College, and are often to be heard at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.  You can also visit them on their website www.birminghambrass.co.uk.  They also asked if they could be invited back on future occasions. Thank you St Mary’s for giving us a special weekend of celebrations. Well done!”

Thanks David for your uplifting review of this event and the well shot photographs. Good to see the Burne Jones stainned glass window captured in the background too.