NEWS PAGE

Harold still blows a good tune

From the archive, Ilkley Gazette first published Thursday 28th Dec 2006.

AGE holds no boundaries for one brass band player who, at 94, is still playing a good tune on his trusty cornet. He is pictured here with SilsdenTown Band’s youngest player, Robin Sayers aged 10

For a man who had to practice in his bathroom - as his late wife, Daisy, wasn't a band fan - Harold Clough couldn't be a more experienced cornet player.

Having played in the Salvation Army band in Keighley for around 60 years, he is now proud to be Silsden Town Band's oldest member, playing alongside his two daughters - Sylvia Somers and Mavis Clarkson - and son-in-law Edgar Clarkson.

He was even part of a small ensemble that played outside the Mount Hermon Chapel in Addingham on Thursday mornings throughout December.

Mr Clough, who lives in Addingham, said: "I never thought I would be playing for so long. It has given me an interest and I fully enjoy it. To some people playing might be a chore, but not for me. I like playing.

"It's an achievement to still be blowing the cornet at my age. I always keep well."

Mr Clough joined Silsden Town Band last year and now practices with them every Tuesday.
Band secretary Claire Corp said: "It's a pleasure to have Harold playing with the band, especially with him being one of the five soloist cornet players.

"He keeps the younger ones on their toes and gives them something to aim for." Harold took up playing the cornet in his early twenties, when - in 1936 - he joined the Salvation Army Band at Denby Dale, where he was stationed as lieutenant.

Silsden Town Band meets every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm at Gloucester Avenue rest centre, in Silsden. Anyone wishing to join can contact Claire on 01282 721890.

home | return | 

© Silsden Town Band 2008

webcraft by faxsol