LOCAL BAND SUPPORTS LOCAL HOSPITAL 

Friday 18th of December saw over 500 guests brave the sub zero temperatures and forecast snow to be thoroughly entertained by the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals at the Coade Hall Theatre, Bryanston.

The Band of 32 members, led by their Director of Music, Captain Dave Barringer performed a programme that truly lived up to its title, "A Christmas Spectacular". The full band entertained the audience with both modern and traditional seasonal pieces some of which are featured on their new CD. Highlights of the evening were surely the two vocal solos perofrmed by Lcpl Tracey Shaw, whose voice was truly mesmerising. With such a variety of music, interspersed with the humour of the Captain Barringer and his Bandmaster, Warrant Officer Class One Colin Hales a fantastic evening was had by all. The only light blip during the evening was of course the obligatory audience participation when an attempt was made for the crowded auditorium to keep up with the Twelve Days of Christmas led by the band's very own elves!

Over £3500 was taken in ticket, programme and raffle sales and with expenses kept as low as possible, both the hospital and Army Benevolent Fund will benefit significantly.

The Friends of Blandford Hospital were overwhelmed with the local support for this event and are looking forward to working with the very popular Band again next year. The Friends would like to thank all members of the Band, Bryanston School for allowing them to use the Coade Hall Theatre and all those that helped make the event a success.

For further information about the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital, joining as a member or becoming a volunteer, please call the Friends Office at the hospital on 01258 450095 or visit the website www.friendsblandford.org.