Woburn Sands Band receives Queen's Award for Voluntary Service
Thursday, 5 September 2019
Hundreds of people joined the Woburn Sands Band at a special event where they were presented with The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups, was presented to Len Jenkins, Chairman of the Woburn Sands Band, by HM Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis, on Wednesday 4 September at The Christian Centre in Milton Keynes.
Over 200 people, including past and present band members, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, local dignitaries, representatives from the local schools and other distinguished guests attended the presentation. Guests were treated to a performance from the youth band on arrival and, after the formal presentation which included a speech from the President/Chair of Trustees William Meads, the “A Band” put on a stunning performance with a selection of music from their very wide and varied repertoire.
The Band, which is a registered charity, provides a focal point for brass banding in the Woburn Sands area by providing the opportunity to play brass or percussion instruments through continual education, training, practice and competition. Membership, tuition and the loan of an array of instruments is all offered free of charge. The Band consists of several groups, with the A Band supported by the B, C, Youth and Junior Bands. The Band also runs a very successful outreach service and individual lessons at local schools.
Representatives from the Band attended a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in May, along with other recipients of this year’s Queen’s Award.
Len Jenkins said:
We are truly honoured that the Woburn Sands Band has been recognised by HM The Queen and we thank the volunteers for their commitment over the years which has made this award possible.
After presenting the award, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis said:
I was delighted for the Woburn Sands Band when they were awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. This is an amazing achievement and a true testament to the outstanding contribution this volunteer-led group have made within the community. It was a real pleasure to present the award to the group on behalf of HM The Queen and it was a delight to see the pride shared amongst the Band members. I offer my sincerest congratulations to all involved.