This evening's band, attached to the Mission Church - founded 74 years ago, well known in the district over many years, helping and playing at churches, and giving assistance to charitable bodies.
They themselves at this time are raising funds for new instruments, a number of the old ones are getting a
"bit beyond it". Even this did not stop them from voting to a man, to come along this evening to help the "Mentally Handicapped", to raise funds.
"Record!" - Five of their players, between them have done 227 years with this band - [M.F.C.] Maurice Clark, 50 years;
[R.C.] Ray Clark, 47 years; [E.W.M.] Eric Mackness 44 years; [J.W.P.] Bill Panter 44 years; and
[H.U]Herbert Underwood, 42 years.
Ladies' Choir - of Rushden Townswomen Guild - this is no change for them to be helping those less fortunate, throughout the year find great pleasure in entertaining the elderly, sick, etc., and like the band assist many charities.
Recently have celebrated their 21st birthday with a bit of a 'do', as it did the whole ot the Rushden 'St. Crispin' Guild.
There are still two or three founder members singing to you this evening and still if asked, would join the others, in saying "They sing because they enjoy singing"
Years ago the choir used to take part in competition, and have won the prizes, but have quietened off lately, but would soon jump at the chance of singing for a worthy cause.
Of the Duet, these two, Joan Vaughan and Phil Maddams hardly need any introduction to Rushden audiences, having taken lead and supporting lead roles with the Operatic Society in the big productions at the Ritz.
We feel this evening, their popularity, after this year's " South Pacific" will prove no exception to the rule.
J.W.P.
