Welshpool residents save the day and secure Remembrance Day parade band

Residents have pitched in to save the day and raise the bulk of the cost to book a band to lead this November’s Remembrance Day parade.

Late November it was revealed by the Town Council that due to demand, parade bands were hard to come by but one had become available at a cost of £1,200.

The Town Council’s tight budget meant they would rather not foot the bill alone, so an appeal was made for the public to help… and haven’t they done just that!

In a statement last night, the local authority revealed: “Welshpool Town Council would like to pay tribute to members of the community who have independently come together to raise funds in support of the town’s Remembrance Day parade this November.

“Generous contributions from local veterans Paul Lockwood, Steve Shalman and Graham have raised £350 towards the cost. In addition, Sheila Beadles, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, organised an antique, bric-a-brac and arts and crafts fundraising morning at Welshpool Town Hall, raising an excellent £529.60.

“The total cost of the band is £1,200, and the Council is grateful for the strong community support that has helped make this possible.

“The Council would like to extend its thanks to everyone who has contributed financially or given their time to support this initiative.”

In recent years, due to cost, the parade has been led by a vintage car blasting out marching music, which has been an excellent plan B, but this year it was felt a real effort should be made to secure an actual marching band, which now looks set to be the case!