The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Last Night of the Proms, Rotary style
Idid not need to go as far as the Albert Hall, or buy expensive tickets, to enjoy a wonderful show. Congratulations Ramsey Rotary Club and your generous sponsor Tony Burton for putting on another spectacular evening of music and entertainment.
A packed hall was soon buzzing with eager expectation. Each year the visit of the RAF Wyton Voluntary Band guarantees an evening of musical delights. This year we had not one but two conductors! As well as our regular bandmaster, the much loved Graham Sheldon, Flying Officer Tom Rodda made a guest appearance resplendent in his dress uniform.
The selection of pieces this year included classical and film music. Of course it would not be an RAF band performance without pieces such as ‘633 Squadron’ and the stirring ‘Dam Busters March’ with the ‘RAF March Past’ bringing the evening to a close. As is tradition at the Proms we all got to our feet to sing ‘Jerusalem’ and ‘Land of Hope & Glory’ accompanied by enthusiastic flag waving and firing of party poppers.
I was thrilled with the selection of fantastic music from `Les Miserables’, my favourite musical of all time. We also were treated to accomplished solo performances featuring the euphonium and clarinet. This year Warrant Officer Brad Appleby gave a vocal solo and, by popular request, Deborah Biggs performed ‘William Tell’ on her xylophone. The speed of her hammers on the keys took the audience’s breath away.
The Proms raised approximately £1,500 for Ramsey Rotarians to use to help support local community projects such as Ramsey in Bloom, Ramsey Day Care centre, a Christmas meal for Ramsey Senior Citizens and the Sue Ryder Hospice. Part of the total, almost £500, came from a raffle with lots of prizes on offer. Members of the band always generously buy raffle tickets and, this year, many of the prizes went home with them. Rotarians, friends and family make a tasty supper to sustain the band. Even young people lend a hand with Flora Whitticase, daughter of Rotarian Richard, making biscuits shaped as musical notes.
Above all, Rotary created a special evening out for over 200 local people. In the audience were residents from both Ramsey Red House and Upwood Manor House Nursing homes who enjoyed the music, singing and flag waving.
As you see, Rotarians are not just fundraisers. We use our skills as facilitators. Come and enjoy Firework Fiesta at the East of England Showground on Saturday 5th November. There will be even more music with live bands from 5.30 to 9pm with a funfair, food stalls and fantastic fireworks. Come and join us.