Band members brave Bournemouth beach clean dodging storm!

With a final confirmatory email signing off with “the arcade is going to shut early because of the storms…”, 14 members of the Bournemouth and District Concert Band bravely made their way to Bournemouth Pier to litter pick the beach.

Band members after collecting 19 bags of rubbish to help get Bournemouth beach clean

For many this was the first time we had met up since March. I’m glad to say the storms waited until we’d finished our collection and had a little sit on the beach to unleash their fury!

Picking up pants, socks, toys and more!

In total, we collected 13 bags of rubbish and six bags of recycling from the beach. Items included a body board, pants, numerous toys and a bank card!

With three cruise ships lingering in the background reminding us that the country is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic, the group discussed the marriages, postponements and engagements that have happened during lockdown.

Some of us collecting rubbish while socially distancing and having a natter!

Although there is a frustration that as a band we’re still unable to rehearse in our normal space, we’ve had comic relief, quizzes and chats in weekly Zoom catch-ups in the ‘Musician’s Arms’ (our virtual pub). The fresh sea air, the comfortable 21 degrees air temperature and the calm waves make a close second to being able to play with the band.

I should give a special mention to the couple who recognised our Bandmaster Nick from the bandstand concerts we held last year. They even remembered his name! Hopefully it won’t be long until we’re out making music again. In the meantime we discussed other opportunities to meet up safely and to help out the local community, and maybe even get more people playing!

See more photos on our band’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

The beach clean Leave Only Footprints initiative

The beach clean is all part of a campaign called Leave Only Footprints which was created by Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council. It’s aim is to keep our coastline tidy.

By Chris on clarinet and drums (not at the same time!)