To Fairlop Brass Band, and the Miller Family,

To be the first non-player to be recognised for their contribution to the band was both humbling and a great honour for me. I stand in the shadow of many people who have given their time and effort to assist the band, and not wear the jacket. Their contributions in the early days was just as significant as mine, but before the generous donation of the Holly Miller ‘Spirit of Fairlop’ award by the Miller family in remembrance of their remarkable daughter.

I would like to take this unique opportunity (as webmaster) to thank Kevin and the Band, not just for the recognition that the award represents, but for their own ‘Spirit of Fairlop’ that guides us band followers. It is an attractive force. Not many people are aware that Kevin himself gives all his time, extensive musical knowledge and experience to the band for no fee. This is unheard of in the Banding world where Musical Directors are often the only paid members of the Band. Of course, all of the Band members are giving their time to play in the concerts we love, for no renumeration to themselves, and in fact pay their own subscriptions to the Band. All proceeds from concerts and sales either go to Band funds, or (in so many cases) to Charity.

Fairlop Brass is made up of a band of brothers and sisters who look after themselves and look out for others. It is a family, and the award make me feel a part of it.

Bless you all and thank you so much for the second time I have received this award.

Alan