Last scout band in Wales need new members

The 1st Rogerstone Scout Band, which was founded in 1957, have been hit by a number of withdrawals, after their long-serving band master Ray O’Brien passed away in January.

Full-strength marching bands normally number anywhere between 30 and 50 members, but the Rogerstone group have seen their membership wither to 12.

After the Rhyl Scout Band disbanded in 2005, the Rogerstone group became the last surviving scout band in Wales and are now making a plea for new members of all ages and abilities to keep the band alive.

New band master Gavin Foley, 27, from Ty-Sign, Risca, said: “When I started in the band 12 years ago, there were two scout bands just in Newport. It is great to be part of something which is so traditional and I think it’s really important to keep that tradition going.

“But the number one thing really is the social side of it.

We have a good laugh and often after practice finishes we’ll go out to McDonald’s or just sit and have a chat.

It’s something you really look forward to.”

“I joined the band eight years ago after the Malpas band disbanded and going to practice has certainly never been a chore,” enthuses 20- year-old Jonathan Gibbons.

“I’ve never had a music lesson, but when I was looking to complete the skill section of my Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, I tried out a few different things but never really got on with any of them. Then I tried the band and I’ve never left.

“I’ve made my best friends here,” said Mr Gibbons, who plays the snare drum.

The band rehearse and perform classic marching band tunes like When the Saints go marching in and It’s a long way to Tipperary and on June 4, will perform at the Ridgeway Beacon lighting to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee.

Mr Gibbons said: “We’re a very relaxed group. I would encourage anyone who fancies having a go to come down and enjoy yourself.”

If you are interested in joining or learning more, go along to the Scout Hall any Tuesday (not June 5) at 7pm.