The Isle of Wight’s Vectis Corps of Drums Marching Band has returned from Shaftesbury Carnival with the prestigious John Pike Celebration Cup after being crowned the best all-round band of the day.
The Island-based marching band was presented with the award outside Shaftesbury Town Hall during the popular Dorset carnival, which the group has attended for the past 5 years.
Huge crowds lined the packed carnival route, with 5 bands taking part and competing for 5 trophies recognising musical talent, entertainment, deportment and overall performance.
The competition, judged by Mike Shoemark, saw awards presented for Senior and Junior Band Deportment, Most Entertaining Band, Most Musically Talented Band and the coveted John Pike Celebration Cup for Best All-Round Band.
Members of Vectis Corps of Drums were delighted to be announced as winners of the top award, marking a proud moment for the band and its musicians of all ages.
One of the highlights of the event was a massed band performance ahead of the carnival, which saw 3 bands come together to perform as one.
Bandmaster Dave Lewis has said:
“One of the highlights of the day for me was the massed band performance before the carnival, where three bands came together to perform as one. It was a wonderful display of the spirit of banding and everything it stands for.
“What made me especially proud was seeing our young members and adult members working side by side, supporting each other and performing together as one team. The respect, encouragement and friendship shown throughout the event reflected exactly what our organisation is about.
“To watch musicians of different ages and experiences come together and produce such an impressive performance was a real credit to everyone involved. Moments like that remind us why we do what we do and why marching band remains such a rewarding activity for people of all ages.”
The band also praised the enthusiastic reception it received from spectators throughout the carnival procession.
A spokesperson for Vectis Corps of Drums has said:
“We always receive a warm welcome in Shaftesbury, and this year was no exception. The support from the crowds was incredible, and it was a joy to perform for so many enthusiastic spectators.
“We are extremely grateful to everyone who cheered us on throughout the day.”
Thanks have also been extended to Shaftesbury Town Council, carnival organisers, volunteers, judges and fellow bands for helping make the event a success.
The John Pike Celebration Cup represents a significant achievement for Vectis Corps of Drums and recognises the hard work, commitment and dedication of its members throughout the season.
