The Spenborough Branch of the Royal British Legion, upon learning that Kirklees Metropolitan Council did not intend to organise any celebrations of this major event in Spenborough, decided that since Her Majesty The Queen is the Patron of the Legion, the event could not be allowed to pass unoticed.

This truly was a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to celebrate only the second Diamond Jubilee in the history of our country and for a Sovereign who is much loved and respected by her subjects.

It was decided to organise a Band Concert to be held in Cleckheaton Town Hall and in order to make the event inclusive to as wide an audience as possible, it was agreed that the event would be staged free of charge and also held during the afternoon. Souvenir programmes and union flags were also provided free of charge.

We were fortunate to be able to engage the services of The Clifton and Lightcliffe Band, under the baton of their Musical Director, Mr John H Clay BA (Hons).

Originally formed in 1838 with bandsmen from the mining and agricultural industries, the Band has won major prizes in national championships and has performed in many counties including France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy and the USA.

The Musical Director John Clay started playing with the band when only 9 years of age, followed by many years in the world renowned Black Dyke Mills Band in all the cornet positions and finally the flugel horn.

Now a music teacher and published composer, John has steered the band to the National Championships no less than 4 times since 2005.

The programme of music was intended to be unashamedly patriotic with a party atmosphere and from the comments received afterwards, it certainly succeeded.

The opening address was given by our Branch Chairman, Mr Eddie Morton, who welcomed our official guests, Councillor Margaret Bates, Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, the Deputy Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Martyn Bolt and Mrs Liz Bolt, together with D Christine Spencer, South and West Yorkshire, County Chairman, Royal British Legion.

The Branch Chairman also extended a welcome to the Sponsors of the Concert, without whose willing support the event would not have been able to go ahead. The surplus on the event is to be divided between the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal and Kirkwood Hospice.

A capacity crowd filled Cleckheaton Town Hall for what will be remembered as a wonderful event.

Click on a thumbnail below to view the photos in a slide show.