Hemel Hempstead Band

Click on picture to enlarge	1976 BERKHAMSTED AND BOXMOOR BAND
Click on picture to enlarge	In 1976 the band went on it’s first trip abroad. An invitation was received to take part in an International Music Festival in Turnhout, Belgium. Bands from many different countries in Europe took part. The band are pictured left assembling in Turnhout Market Square facing the Drum Major, Des Keoghane ex Welsh Guards. Des was awarded first prize for his performance in leading the band on the march.
There were two contests, one for marching and one playing a set test piece. The band’s performance in the former was abysmal but the honour of British brass bands was upheld by an excellent performance in the latter. Louis van Steenbergen, pictured right with band secretary Barbara Overhead, greatly assisted the band in arranging this and subsequent visits to Turnhout, and was later made a Life Member of the band.	Click on picture to enlarge
Click on picture to enlarge	Left are some of the party celebrating on board the ferry to Dover. From left to right: Pauline MacDonald, Maurice Overhead, Den Shirley, John Briggs, Mike Abbiss, Barbara Overhead, Claire Cann, Peter Shirley, Roger Kitchen, Nick Cann, Ronnie Oldham, Toni Cann, Eddie Miller and Den Cann.
1977 BERKHAMSTED AND BOXMOOR BAND	Click on picture to enlarge
After a successful year in the contest field under the guidance of Duncan Wells the band displays it’s trophies. Click on the picture to the right to enlarge and put names to the faces.	Click on picture to enlarge
Click on picture to enlarge	1979 BERKHAMSTED AND BOXMOOR BAND
Click on picture to enlarge	At the Watford contest the band wear their new uniforms. Click on the picture to the left to enlarge and put names to the faces.