We're teaming up with Poynton Brass Band (again!)

Poynton Brass Band is one of the North-West's premier brass bands and an integral part of the Poynton Community. We're proud to have supported them since 1988, and we're excited to continue as their key sponsor.

“The band is absolutely delighted with the news that Vernon Building Society has agreed to extend their sponsorship for a further two years. We are proud to be associated with such a community-focused organisation and will as always do our best to support them to show our gratitude for their generosity. Their support has allowed the band to undertake some great projects over the years and we look forward to continuing this partnership." Frank Needham, Chairman.

A Brief History of the Band

The original Poynton Band first started in the early 1800s in the coal mining village of Poynton. The exact year is not known, but records show that it was thriving by 1824 and that Lady Vernon, who was involved with charity work for miners' families, provided the Band with new uniforms in 1832.

During the mid-1950s, Charley Holt became Conductor. In those days, the band rehearsed on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and (between October to April) on a Sunday morning. Through Charley's reign, the Band improved its standard of performance to the extent that in the 1960's it graduated from the 4th Section to the Championship Section. Prior to this, the Band had always been a 4th Section Band.

In late 1974, Alan Lawton became Musical Director and the band won the National Regional Contest in March 1975. Alan conducted the band over several periods up to 2008. Under Alan, Poynton were a band to be beaten and won many contests.

In 1988, we became the band's main sponsor. We're extremely proud of our association with the band and their service to our community.

In 2007 Alan Lawton was awarded the M.B.E. for services to music then, in 2008, he handed over the baton to Kevin Gibbs who, over a 3-year period led the Band back to the Championship Section.

Stig Mærsk joined the band as Musical Director in 2017. Born in Denmark, Stig was principal cornet with the Danish National Champion Band, Concord Brass, before concentrating on his studies and trumpet at the Danish Royal Academy.

If you'd like to learn more about the band, click here.