At the A.G.M on November 27^th 1986 it was suggested that perhaps it would be good time to invest in new uniforms as the current set had been in use for over thirty years. These uniforms were Navy blue with paler blue lapels and made of a heavy woollen material. They were decorated with gold shoulder epaulets and a chevron design on the cuff. There was also a two coloured blue hard hat (bus conductor style) with a gold badge.

 A sub committee involving Mark Freeman, Sue Mundy, David and Karon Rice was formed to investigate the possibilities. Some Fund raising activities were needed to boost the funds.

After many fund raising events the Rushden Mission Band members at the A.G.M on Thursday November 26^th decided to proceed with new uniforms. The secretary Karon Rice had contacted several uniform manufacturers, and Ian Roberts, a Kettering based firm, was selected.

Mr Roberts came and measured the members and a washable cherry coloured blazer style was selected. (To read a news article about the uniforms click here.)

A concert conducted by Ray Clark was performed to “show off” the new uniforms.

In 1996 the exact coloured material became unavailable from any source, and it was then decided at the A.G.M.on Thursday November 14^th1996 to replace them with a new set.

Due to the popularity of the film “Brassed Off” it was decided to contact Mr Roger Handley, whose company were responsible for the making of the film's uniforms. A sub committee was again set up, involving Kevin Bates, Elaine and Colin Bugby, Peter Cross, Sarah Osborne, Karon and David Rice, Terry Spencer and Beverley Sanders. Mr Handley came to Rushden bringing sample materials and styles to be perused. Black was chosen with green reveres and cuffs with gold trimmings. Hats were abandoned. As the band centenary was approaching, a new pocket badge logo was introduced.

On Thursday July24th 1997, a special concert was arranged to introduce the new uniforms. The band, conducted by Tony Boddington, played in the older uniforms for the first half and after refreshments, changed and played in their new uniforms.

Programme

After the A.G.M. in Nov 2000, is was decided to adopt trousers for the ladies of the band. These were first worn at the Christmas Festive Concert in December of the same year.