According to my grandfather, in his book "The Records of Hooe", the Hooe Band had its beginning in 1902, when, on Guy Fawkes night of that year, some of the village's young men, playing the only instruments they had, fifes, whistles and using a tambourine in place of a drum, led a procession through the village, with, at the front, bandmaster, Mr. Roland Smith.
The adjoining village of Ninfield had a band many years before this date and they played at all types of celebrations and events, such as Guy Fawkes night, in both Ninfield and Hooe - which is where the idea of having their own band, most probably, originated among the young men of Hooe.
Although, perhaps, in imitation of the Ninfield Band, they had played together before this date, both for practice and for fun, it was, according to my Grandfather, John James Newport, this single event that started them on a path that would lead to today's Silver Band.
The war years, 1914-1918, took its toll, as the young men of the village went to war. An article in the "Bexhill Chronicle" dated 14th November 1914, ends, in refernce to the "Hooe Fife and Drum Band", with the words, "Thanks are due to them for their efforts, as they consist of small boys".
When, some years later, Roland Smith died, his brother, Harold Smith, took over as bandmaster.
In the early days, practices were held in the barn of a Mr. Boniface and the band seems to have had the support of most, if not all, of the villagers, as witnessed by the newspaper reports in the Bexhill Observer.
The band entered many competitions, winning many prizes, but the one won at Crystal Palace, in 1930, was the most rewarding, as this added the word "Prize" to their title.
The villagers held whist drives and jumble sales to help fund the band and a Hooe Band Committee was formed to support the band members with the costs of attending events and the purchase of instruments and uniforms. The Band seems to have been a great source of pride to the village.
Eventually, the "brass" gave way to "silver" and the word "prize" had to be dropped but they still play today at the "Red Lion" in Hooe, on Tuesday nights!
Most of my story, of the band, comes from newspaper cuttings taken from the local newspapers of the day and the first mention I found of the Fife and Drum Band was in the "Bexhill Chronicle", dated 14th November 1914.
The "Bexhill Observer", on Saturday, 22nd January 1927, gave a report of a meeting, held on the previous Wednesday, of "subscribers" to fund the purchase of brass instruments for the new brass band.
I have selected those reports that demonstrate best those aspects relating to the Band, its supporters, and the many and varied events and celebrations at which the band performed.
I have, also, included a few of the human events that happened to band members and which the newspaper reported - funerals and weddings.
There are many people named in the lists and, while, as a Family Historian, these are like water to a man dying of thirst, I do have to be careful of infringing the "Data Protection Act" but I don't think I have and hope that I have done right and that no one is offended.
My grandfather, in his book, "The Records of Hooe", gives the earliest account of how the band beagn and so I will start with what he said and then go onto the newspaper cuttings.
Before I get on with it, if any Hooe Silver Band members read this (or, in fact, anybody from the village) and can add to what I have written here, I would be very pleased, as I want to make this the best "Village" website there is!
Let's begin with what my grandfather says in his book: -
(From my grandfather's book - "Records of Hooe")
HOOE VILLAGE BAND
Hooe Village Band, styled Hooe Prize Band, because of its many successes at Band Contests, originated in 1902, with a few lads playing whistles and fifes with a tambourine for a drum under the tuition and leadership of the late Mr. Roland Smith - a brother of the Bandmaster who succeeded him, Mr. Harold Smith.
With the kind consent of the late Mr. Boniface of Pevensey, practices were held in the barn at the rear of Church Farmhouse, Halls Cross, without charge. Tunes were learnt by ear, for the only kind of light possible was by candles.
Members contributed 3d a week each towards expenses.
Although little could be expected from a band trained under such conditions, yet the Hooe Band was requisitioned to lead torchlight processions on November 5th Celebrations - when a "guy" on a hand-carriage was conveyed to its cremation on the bonfire. Year after year the Band attended Hospital Parades at Herstmonceux and at Pevensey. The voluntary service involved much marching. The Band marched to Herstmonceux, marched about eight miles around Herstmonceux and then home - altogether some twenty-four miles.
As a token of their gratitude for the free use of his barn, the members contributed and bought Mr. Boniface a silver-mounted walking-stick - a gift he valued.
We have recorded that the barn was lighted with candles - as for warmth, when it was cold, marching was resorted to.
Marches to Wartling Hill and other villages were made and smoking concerts indulged in before the return home.
For some time the present Bandmaster was a member of the Ninfield Band. During recent years the Band has changed to brass instruments and from them to silver ones.
They are also now uniformed, the uniforms being blue with white stripes.
In recent years, too, the Band has been well supported by local residents. Practices are held, generally on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Hooe Village Hall. Expenses are met by subscriptions, donations, collections and members' payments.
Among the Presidents have been Captain R. G. Kincaid and Mr. H. E. Froy. The present one is Mrs. Constant, Holmes's Farm, whilst Mr. J. Berthon Sparke, M.A., J.P., has acted as Chairman for some years.
(From the "Bexhill Chronicle", 14th November 1914)
HOOE
The Hooe Fife and Drum Band, conducted and organised by Mr Roland Smith, had a march out in the villages of Hooe and Ninfield, last week. They were collecting for Red Cross work, and were very successful, and handed over £1 2s 2d to the Ladies' Committee Fund. Thanks are due to them for their efforts, as they consist of small boys.
(From the "Bexhill Observer", 22nd January 1927)
HOOE
Formation of Brass Band - A meeting of subscribers towards the fund, to provide instruments for a brass band, was held in the Village hall on Wednesday evening, and was presided over by Admiral Chambers, C. B.; others present including Mrs. Constant, Mrs. Cleworth, Mr. S. Dodson, Mr. H. Smith and Mr. H. Clifton.
A representative of the firm of Messers Hawkes, from whom it is proposed to purchase the instruments, was also present and gave helpful advice as to what instruments should be obtained. The Chairman expressed pleasure at the response to the appeal for funds and announced that so far £49 out of the £59 required had been secured. It was decided to purchase the instruments at once and a vote of thanks was accorded Mr. H. Smith for his efforts in connection with the raising of subscriptions. Admiral Chambers, Mr. Smith, and Mr. S. Dodson were elected trustees of the fund, and the latter was appointed treasurer. Mr. A. Sargent was elected hon. Secretary.
(From the "Bexhill Observer", 21st May 1927)
HOOE
BRASS BAND'S DEBUT
The Brass Band, which was formed three months ago by members of the original drum and fife band and five old members, made their first public appearance on Tuesday evening when they held a route march through the village. The selections played were greatly enjoyed by all, and the members, and Mr. H. Smith, the conductor, on the wonderful progress made. All the bandsmen displayed a good knowledge of their instruments, and, with further practice, they should be able to hold their own with any other village band of their size. The total membership at present is 25.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 18th August, 1928
HOOE BRASS BAND
A History of Progress
Tin for a Side Drum
The Hooe Brass Band is a splendid example of what enthusiasm can do. For years the parish, although small in numbers, very scattered, and suffering from the disadvantage of being rather out of the way, has boasted of a band of some kind. Admittedly in the early days it was nothing to write home about, but great keenness prevailed amongst the members, and they were fired with an ambition to make their band as good as others in the district.
Slowly but surely it has progressed in numbers and in skill, and today the brass band is gaining for itself something of a reputation, although it is less than 18 months since the instruments were acquired.
Uniforms have also been purchased, and the bandsmen looked exceedingly smart in these, which are of dark blue with royal blue collars and silver facings. White collars and black ties are worn with the tunics which have reveres instead of buttoning close round the neck, and make the uniforms quite distinctive. The caps are of dark blue with a royal blue band and are ornamented with a neat silver badge.
Tambourine as Drum
Less than 27 years ago, the band came into existence, and in those days it was a job to equip the bandsmen with fifes, let alone uniforms. A 5th November celebration was held in 1901 and a few young men in the village headed the parade with whistle pipes and fifes. A tambourine fulfilled the duties of a big drum, and a tin was used in place of a side drum. These did good service and everyone was satisfied with the manner in which the impromptu band acquitted itself. The next year it was decided to start of fife and drum band. There were about 25 members and they practised five nights each week in an old shed at Hall's Cross, kindly lent by Mr Boniface. These practices were thoroughly enjoyed and a great amount of noise, with a degree of music, was the outcome. All members were most regular in the attendances despite the fact that several had to come a considerable distance.
On Saturday evenings, the band marched to neighbouring villages and played selections.
The band was engaged for the hospital parade at Gardener Street and the members walked to the Woolpack Inn a distance of 5 miles, and headed the procession which covered another 6 miles! After tea the bandsmen walked back to Hooe and thought nothing of it. Few bands would care to do that now. The war caused the break-up of the band; most of the members seeing active service.
Band Reformed
At the conclusion of hostilities a few of the old bandsmen tried to restart the band and several lads joined. In 1921 a few gathered together, armed with fifes and the drums of the old band. Mr H. Smith, the present bandmaster, was asked to come and help them with their practices, which he was delighted to do, for he had been in a band for several years before the war and had lost none of his keenness. It is doubtful, however, whether he will ever forget his first visit to the shed where the practices were held. On opening the door he was almost choked with the smoke of tobacco. The shed was ill-lighted and in one corner was a pile of faggots, while, in another chickens were roosting and assisting with the melody, which, if somewhat on tuneful, was nonetheless rigorous. Mr Smith had a face almost as black as night when he returned home. What cheered him was the keenness of his pupils. There were eight men in the room, five with pipes one with a big drum, another with a side drum, and the eighth was performing merrily with cymbals.
Their enthusiasm was further heightened by Mr Smith's account of the performances of the band of pre-war days, and his assertion that Hooe could have another band as good, if not better than that. The Village Hall was secured for practices and members paid 2d a week. Soon the band had increased to 16, all playing by ear. During Christmas that year, the members raised £10 by playing in the district and the next summer their services were enlisted for hospital parades. All were anxious to learn music, and though progress was naturally slow at first, the experiment proved satisfactory. In a week, £15 to purchased new fifes and flutes was collected, the resident showing the greatest interest in the band.
For six years the fife and drum band did excellent work, and all the money raised by engagements was put to swell the band funds.
Brass Instruments Purchased
Having done so well, the members were by no means satisfied, for it was their intention to form themselves into a brass band. A meeting was called to discuss ways and means of raising the money to purchase instruments, and, thanks to the generous support of the residents once again, especially of Admiral B. M. Chambers, CBE, Mr. H. H. Kent, Mr S. Dodson, Mr A. Lade, Mr. H. Barton, and Mr. Clifton, the money was collected in three months and was added to the £20, which band had in hand. The instruments costing nearly £100 were obtained in February 1927, and soon after uniforms were purchased. The present band numbers 24 and three more anxious to join. They have instruments but no uniforms. The band, providing the keenness of members does not diminish - and there is little fear of this - can look forward to a successful career. Their services are much in demand; engagements are becoming more numerous than can be covered. Wherever the band has been it is given satisfaction.
The members are lucky to have such an experienced musician as Mr Smith, as bandmaster. His heart is in the band, and he is doing excellent work. What is more, he has the confidence and goodwill of every member. Hooe folk are rightly proud of their band which has been so generously supported by them.
(From the "Bexhill Observer", 4th May 1929)
BRASS BAND
The great success of Hooe Brass Band is evidenced by the balance sheet for the past year. The receipts totalled £176 and expenses £173 - 7s - 7d., leaving a balance of £2 - 16s.
From the "Bexhill Observer - 11th May 1929"
HOOE - BAND SUCCESS - Success came to the Hooe Brass Band on Saturday, when they took part for the first time in the Band Festival at Tunbridge Wells. The band, which has been formed only two years, entered in the 4th section and won the "Christie" Challenge Cup, a three-guinea cash prize, and conductor's medal. The adjudicator's remarks on the Hooe Band's performance were as follows: - "Hefty opening and good expression. Soloist plays with taste. Accompaniments nicely balanced but tone might be a little better. Bass, nice tone, but inclined to be heavy. Cadenza, very fair . Allegro, nice. Quite good subdued playing. Balance in F. F. parts not too good; bass and trombone too heavy. Andante, sensitive playing that is spoilt by raggedness in places. Approach to Andantino, nicely done. Euphonium plays nicely, clean tone. I am enjoying this section but that bass is still pom-poming a little too heavy. Maestoso fanfare neat and fairly clean but a little ragged on opening of next verse; too much rall. Nine bars from close, save the biggest part of it have liked these bars. Still a very good performance, indeed." The Band scored 69 out of a possible 100 and will hold the cup for one year. It will be on view at the Red Lion Inn and also at Mr Dodson's shop.
From "Bexhill Observer" 17th August 1929
HOOE - BRASS BAND - It is estimated that between 40 and 50 Hooe people will be at Orpington to-morrow (Saturday) to encourage the village Brass Band, which will take part in the 4th Section of the Band Contest there.
From "Bexhill Observer" 24 August 1929
HOOE - BAND SUCCESS - Over seventy local people accompanied the Hooe Prize Band to Orpington on Saturday, when they gained second prize and a certificate in the 4th Section of the band contest. Only three bands competed in the section, Haggerston being first and Erith Town being third. Hooe was the only Sussex band entered for the contests. The test piece was "The Spirit of Youth" Mr H. Smith was the conductor and the prize amounted to £3.
From "Bexhill Observer" 14th February 1931
HOOE - BANDSMEN'S SUCCESS - At the fourth annual quartette contest under the auspices of the Tunbridge Wells and District Band Federation on Saturday, the Hooe Band entered two quartettes, both of which were successful in the third division. The quartette consisting of S. Mepham, L.H. Clifton, C. Smith, and W. E. Philpot obtained second place, and that consisting of A. H. Sargent, D, Sargent, F. Catt, and C. Sargent third place. The test piece was "God is a Spirit".
From "Bexhill Observer" 21st March 1931
HOOE- WEDDING - The wedding took place st Eastbourne on Saturday last of Miss Dorothy Steere daughter of Mr and Mrs E. Steere, of Eastbourne, and Mr Kenneth Smith, the eldest son of Mr and Mrs Bernard Smith, of Hooe Common Mr Kenneth Smith was until a few seasons ago the popular captain of the Hooe Football Club. He is a cornet player in the Hooe Band. Mr and Mrs K. Smith were the recipients of numerous useful presents, including a clock from the bridegroom's fellow members of the band.
From "Bexhill Observer" 26th September 1931
HOOE - PRIZE BAND'S OUTING - Upon the kind invitation of their vice-president (Mr. J. Voller), the members of the Hooe Prize Brass Band visited Herne Bay recently. They lunched at the Huntsman's Horn Hotel, after playing selections to an appreciative audience on the Green. The band then visited "Benylit", the residence of Mr. Voller, and spent a pleasant time in the beautiful gardens, which include a rockery and ornamental ponds. They were conducted around Herne Bay and returned to the Huntsman's Horn Hotel for tea. Owing to illness, Mr. Voller was unable to accompany them, and Mr. H, Clifton, on behalf of the band, expressed sympathy and proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Voller for inviting them to Herne Bay. The band then rendered several selections on the Green, and a collection was taken in aid of the Herne Bay Cottage Hospital. A Large crowd attended. Mr. J. Kouson (president of the hospital) thanked the band for their services
From "Bexhill Observer" 9th July 1932
PRESENTATION TO BANDMASTER
An interesting presentation was made to Mr H. H. Smith, bandmaster of the Hooe Prize Band, last Friday, when the band was entertained at Court Lodge by the President (Mr H. E. Froy) and Mrs Froy.
The gifts, a walnut clock in case, inscribed, "To Mr H. H. Smith, in recognition of his services to the Hooe Band, from its many admirers" and a medal inscribed, "To Mr H. H. Smith, in recognition of services rendered to the Hooe Band, from its members" were handed to the bandmaster by Mrs Froy, and Mr Smith made suitable acknowledgement. Mr Froy congratulated the members of the band of their success at Tunbridge Wells and West Chiltington, and the way in which they worked with the bandmaster. Mr H. Clifton expressed thanks to Mrs Froy for making the presentation, and to Mr Froy for the interest he took in the band.
(From the "exhill Observer", 9th July 1932)
HOOE
HOSPITALS PARADE - The Hooe Hospitals Parade Committee, at their first meeting this years, fixed July 17th for their annual function. As, however, the Hooe Prize Brass Band are engaged at the St. John Ambulance Brigade review and inspection at Eastbourne on that date, as well as local ambulance men and others, and other engagements the following Sunday, the parade has been postponed indefinitely.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 1st October 1932
HOOE - AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE = The local Prize Band is competing in the festival at the Crystal Palace tomorrow, and, asd many members of the football team, are also in the band, there is no football fixture.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 8th October 1932
HOOE - BAND CONTEST - The Hooe Prize Band, which has already won many laurels, took part in the Brass Band Festival at the Crystal Palace on Saturday. The village musicians, accompanied by over 100 supporters, made the journey by road. Under the conductorship of Mr H. Smith, the band played in the Junior Cup competition, Section C, the test piece being "The Inspiration of Youth" by J. Ord Hume. Twenty-nine bands competed in the section and, although the villagers failed to win any award, they gave a very good performance.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 13th May 1933
HOOE - BAND AT TUNBRIDGE WELLS - On Saturday the Hooe Prize Band , accompanied by about 60 supporters, journeyed by coach to Tunbridge Wells, where they took part in the Brass Band contest. They entered the first and open sections, but, competing against such bands as Callender's and Canterbury City, they did not gain an award.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 13th May 1933
HOOE- UNIFORMS FOR BAND - As the result of a meeting on Monday, it is revealed that, after clearing expenses, the Hooe Prize Band benefited by £2 19s 5d from the concert and £23 14s 2d from the jumble sale, which were recently held in the Village Hall in aid of new uniforms for the bandsmen.
The Band Committee would like to thank Mrs Constant and her helpers for their co-operation in organising these two functions.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 10th June 1933
HOOE - BAND AT CAPEL - On Monday the Hooe Prize Band, accompanied by a large number of supporters, went to, Capel, Surrey, to take part in a brass band contest. The, journey was made in motor coaches and an excellent ride through the country was enjoyed. Although the band did not win an award, they acquitted themselves with credit. The test piece was " Gems of Melody (Liszt).
From the "Bexhill Observer", 1st July 1933
HOOE - BAND AT BEXHILL - A programme of music by. the Hooe Prize Band added very much to the enjoyment of visitors on the occasion of the Garden Sunday in aid of the League of the Golden Penny at. Lindores School, Bexhill, on Sunday. The band was conducted by Harold Smith.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 24th March 1934
HOOE - WHIST DRIVE FOR BAND - In aid of the Band Uniform fund, a whist drive was held in Hooe Village Hall. There were 12 tables in play and the prize winners were - Ladies: 1, Mrs. Hawkins. 170; Mr H Clifton (as lady). 169: 1, Mrs. B Gander, 168; consolation. Miss M. Lewis, 138; longest at one table, Mrs. H. Smith: most threes, Miss E. Philpot; travelling, Mrs. E. Elphick. Gentlemen: 1. Mr. J. Luck, 174; 2. Mr. K. Smith 171: .3. Mr. Brown. 169: consolation. Mr. E. Elphick. 132: longest at one table, Mr. J. Barton; most threes. Mr. E. Stubberfield: travelling. Mr. Tooth. Competitions: - Man disguised; Mr. T. Sargent; letters Mrs Ivy Barton; lucky number, Mr G. Sargent. Thanks were accorded Mrs. B. Smith. Mrs H. Smith, and Mrs H. Barton for arranging the drive, which resulted in a profit of £5 19s 10d. The prizes were presented by Mr H. Smith. Mr. Philpot acted as MC.
(From the "Bexhill Observer", 22nd September 1934)
HOOE BANDSMAN
Death of Mr W. Farmer
The Hooe Brass Band lost a member by the death, last Friday, of Mr William Farmer of 75, Reginald Road, Bexhill. Aged 26, he was the only son of Mr and Mrs T. W. Farmer, of London Cross Cottages, and was employed by Messers A. L. Roberts, F. R. H. S., nurseryman of Ninfield Road. He leaves a widow.
The funeral took place on Tuesday, at the Bexhill Borough Cemetery, following the service at St Mary Magdalene Church. The Reverend Father O'Neill officiated.
The mourners were the widow, Mr and Mrs T. W. Farmer (father and mother), Mr and Mrs A. C. Benge (brother-in-law and sister), Mrs C. A. Bennett (mother-in-law), Miss B. Bennett (sister-in-law), Mr and Mrs C. Mercer (uncle and aunt), Mr J. Farmer (uncle), Mrs E. Cramp and Mrs B. Digman (aunts) Mrs G. Veness, Mr and Mrs R. Cramp and Mrs A. C. Powell (cousins).
The sympathisers included Mr A. L. Roberts, F. R. H. S. (employer), Mr W. Howe and Mr Stanley Seymore (fellow employees), Mr Smith (Bandmaster of the Hooe Band) and several fellow bandsmen. Mrs Packham (from the Ninfield Mission Hall), Mrs W. Roberts, Miss R. Roberts, Mrs Crisford, Miss Packham, Mr C. Clifton and Mrs Page.
The floral tributes were inscribed: -
"Always in my memory. In remembrance of my dear husband, from his sorrowing wife"; "In ever loving memory of our dear son, William, from his heartbroken mother and father"; "In ever loving memory of our dearest brother, from his loving sister and brother, Dorothy and Alf"; "In ever loving memory of my dear son-in-law, from Mrs Bennett and family"; "To dear Willie, with much love, from Uncle Jim"; "With loving wishes to my dear Uncle Wiggle, from little Noel"; "In ever loving memory of dear Bill, from his sister-in-law Bridie"; "In loving memory, from Auntie, Uncle, Mabel, and Phyllis"; "With deepest sympathy, from Aunt Mary, Dick, Lil, Horace, and Grace"; "In loving memory of dear Willie, from Aunt Annie and Uncle George"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mr and Mrs Mallows"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mabel and Arnold Roberts"; "With deepest sympathy, from fellow bandsmen of Hooe Brass Band"; "From Mr and Mrs R Deeprose and Mabel, with deepest sympathy (Southsea)"; "With sincere sympathy, from Mr and Mrs W. Roberts and Nora"; "Kind remembrances, from Jack and Nellie"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mrs Fairall"; "With kind remembrances, from Mrs S. Sargent and Frances"; "With love and deepest sympathy, from Mary, Bessie and Fred"; "In affectionate remembrance, from Tessie and Stanley"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mr and Mrs Wilson"; "With heartfelt sympathy from Mr and Mrs Packham and family"; "With love from John and Eileen"; "In affectionate remembrance, from May and Bob"; "To dear Uncle Bill, from Nora and Paddy"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mrs Howe and Harold"; "With sincere sympathy, from Alf and Ciss"; "With deepest sympathy, from the girls at Ancaster House"; "With deepest sympathy, from Nora, Frances and Jim"; "In affectionate remembrance and sincere sympathy, from Mr and Mrs S. Morris and family"; "From Mr and Mrs J. Geal and family, in sympathy"; "A word of loving sympathy, from Annie and Leslie"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mr and Mrs L. Pearson"; "With much sympathy, from Tommy and Margaret, Hastings"; "With deepest sympathy from Miss Packham and Gladys"; "With our deep sympathy,, from Mrs Crisford and Mervyn"; "In affectionate remembrance of the real good pal, from Cecil and Kathleen"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mr and Mrs Stevens"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mr and Mrs W. Crossingun"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mr and Mrs Foord"; "With sincere sympathy, from Mr and Mrs Vitler and Nellie"; "With sincere sympathy, from the staff of Thorne Mill Nurseries".
The funeral arrangements were conducted by Mr J. P. Mummery, of Devonshire Road Bexhill.
Mrs Farmer wishes to thank all friends for their sympathy and floral tributes.
From the "Bexhill Observer", 4th May 1935
HOOE - A drumhead service at 1.30 p.m. marks the opening of the celebrations at Hooe, The Vicar (the Rev. A. W. E. Dowse) is to conduct the service, which will be led by the Hooe Prize Band. From two to four o'clock sports will be held and a fancy dress procession will leave the school, headed by the band. Side shows and all the usual fun on a fair ground have been arranged.
After a public tea a masque and country dancing are to be enjoyed, followed by more sports and the presentation of the prizes. A bonfire is to 'be lit at 9.20, with a full firework display. The concluding item is a dance, at the Village Hall.
From the Bexhill Observer, 25th May 1935
HOOE DANCE There was a merry company at the Village Hall on Saturday when a dance was held. The Hooe Band were responsible for the arrangements, and the proceeds were for the Bexhill Hospital/ excellent Music was supplied by Mr Lades Band at Ninfield.
From the Bexhill Observer, 1st June 1935
HOOE VICARS INSTITUTION The Rev A. W. E. Dowse will be instituted as vicar of Hooe next Wednesday, June 5th, at 6 p. m. by the Bishop of Lewes. The Hooe Prize Band will accompany the singing. During his six months charge of the parish the new vicar has proved himself most acceptable to the people.
From the Bexhill Observer, 2nd November 1935
HOOE - ARMISTICE DAY - The Standard Hill branch of the British Legion are holding their ex-Service men's rally at Hooe on Sunday, November 10th. The men will parade at the Red Lion at 2.15 p.m. and will march to St. Oswald's Church, headed by the Hooe Prize Band. It is hoped that the address will be given by the Rev. E. H. Leale, of Bexhill. Transport for the Catsfield contingent is being supplied by Countess Brassey, J.P.
From the Bexhill Observer, 16th November 1935
HOOE - LEGION PARADE - Under the auspices of the Standard Hill branch of the British Legion the annual ex-Servicemen's parade was held at Hooe on Sunday. A good number of old soldiers assembled at the Red Lion, and, headed by the Hooe Prize Band, marched to St. Oswalds Church. The standard was carried by Mr. A. Lennard. The service was conducted by the Rector of Little Common (the Rev A,Miles) whose text was Without Me, you are nothing!, The "Last Post" was sounded by .a bugler of the band. After the service the parade returned to the Village Hall for tea.
From the Bexhill Observer, 25th April 1936
HOOE JUMBLE SALE Mrs Constant (president of the Hooe Band) and lady helpers were responsible for a successful jumble sale in aid of the band at the Village Hall on Wednesday, which realised 29 6s 8d. The individual sales of articles were as follows: - Mrs Constant, 15 10s; stallholders Mrs W. Cornford, Mrs C. Smith, and Mrs F. Vitler, 1 13s 1d; Mrs H. Smith and Mrs A. Sargent, 1 6s 11d. ; Mrs K. Smith, Miss R. Smith and Miss Annfrith, 2 11s 10d.; Mrs E. Tooth and Mrs A. Freeman (teas) 13s 1d.; Mrs Russell, Mrs Constant, Mrs Tapper and Miss Edwards, 3 1s 11d.; Messers McDonald, Smith, Sargent, and Pansey, 4 6s; guessing cake, 1 17s 6d.; Mr S. Ballard (at the door). 9s 10d.
[J. W. Ns Note I have a suspicion that Miss Annfrith, as printed in the newspaper, should have been Miss Ann Frith as I cannot find, on the Internet, any people with a surname Annfrith but, of course many with the surname Frith.]
From the Bexhill Observer, 31st October 1936
HOOE BANDSMAN WEDS
Mr C. S. Russell and Miss T. Edwards
Mr. Charles Stanley Russell, a member of the Hooe Band, who is also well known as a keen sportsman, being assistant secretary of the village football team and a member of the cricket club, was married at St. Mary Magdalen's, Church, Bexhill, on Saturday. Mr. Russell, who has lived at Hooe all his life, is the youngest son of the late Mr. John Russell and of Mrs. Russell, Diamond House, Hooe, and his bride was Miss Teresa Edwards, second daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Edwards, of Roscrea, Ireland,
Given away by Mr. R. Scrace, her brother-in-law, she wore a dress of ivory satin, with veil and coronet of orange blossom, and ivory satin shoes and car- ried a bouquet of pink carnations.
There were three bridesmaids, the Misses Eileen and Mary Scrace (nieces of the bride), and Miss Doreen Russell , (niece of the bridegroom). Carrying blue and white Victorian posies, they were dressed in pink silk lysex, with head-dresses of silver lame trimmed with blue and pink rosettes and wore black patent shoes.
The Rev. Father D. Payne officiated and Mr. Frank Russell (brother of the bridegroom) was the best man. As the bride left the church she was presented by Master Denis Scrace with a lucky horseshoe autograph book, in which the guests, numbering it, signed their names.
The reception was held at the Savoy Cafe, Town Hall-square. and when Mr. and Mrs. Russell left for their honeymoon at Edmonton the bride was wearing a dark wine-coloured frock-coat and hat. with gloves and shoes to tone.
They will make their home at " Tesstan".- Turkey-road, Bexhill. A list of the presents is appended:-
Bride to bridegroom, toilet outfit in leather case; bridegroom to bride, handbag and gloves; bridegroom to bridesmaids, silver chains and pendants; bridegroom's mother, blankets and pictures; Mr. and Mrs. Scrace, sheets and towels: Mr. and Mrs. Egan, tablecloth and pillow cases: Mr and Mrs D. Edwards, Treasury note; Mr. T. Edwards, two rugs: Mr. and Mrs. Frank Russell, carving knife, fork and steel: Mr. and Mrs. Fred Russell, tablecloth and towels: Miss Doreen Russell, afternoon tea cloth and cosy; Master Raymond Russell, bread knife; the Misses Eileen and Mary Scrace, cushions; Masters John and Denis Scrace, knife box.
Mrs. Laurence (Eastbourne), cheque and oil paintings; Mrs. Gausden (Bradford), silver teapot, jug and sugar basin: Mr. and Mrs. W. Parker (Ninfield), set of jugs; Mr. F Parker (Catsfleld), Treasury note; Mr. and Mrs. T Gurr (Catsfield), jam dish and silver stand; Mr. and Mrs. Levit, (Eastbourne), set of saucepans; Mr. and Mrs. Russell (Leicester), tablecloth; Mrs. Wilson (Hooe), seven pairs of curtains; Mr. and Mrs. Constant and Mrs. Tapper, set of oak trays; Mrs. Seymour, dinner service and tea spoons; Miss Douglas (London), eiderdown and bedspread; Mr. and Mrs. Amos (Maidstone), silver teapot and stand and teaspoons: Mr. and Mrs. Webester (Maidstone), two handmade rugs and half dozen knives: Master Alex Webester (Maidstone). Tray cloth; Mrs. Simmons (Essex), set of Pyrex dishes.
Hooe Village Band, oak kerb; Mr. and Mrs. Crouch (Hooe), half dozen tea and half dozen dinner knives; Mrs. A. Lade (Ninfield), blankets; Norah and Kate, tea service; .Mrs. Hanafin, flower vase; Miss Burrows; blankets: Mr. and Mrs. Poysden, cushion,' Mrs. Goldby (Battle), afternoon tea cloth; Miss Bennett, Rena and Dollis (Hooe), dozen wine glasses and decanter: Mr. and Mrs. W. Wright (Hooe), bread board and knife; Mr. and Mrs. B. Smith, Walter and Ruby (Hooe), cushions: Mr. M. Pont (Brlghtling), glass dishes and tumblers;
Miss M. O. Dowd, fruit set; Mrs. Cornford and Miss F. Cornford (Hooe), cushion, and tea, cosy; Messrs. Alf and Arthur Cornford (Hooe), adjustable mirror; Mr. and Mrs. Harmer, tassels; Miss Simmons, afternoon tea cloth, Mr. and Mrs. Crossingum, tablecloth: Master Tony and Pat Crossingum, glass dishes; Mr. and Mrs. B. Hoadley, bedspread; Mr. and Mrs. Pearson, half dozen forks and electrical goods; Mr. and Mrs. J. Hoadley, towels: the Misses A. and M. Markwick (Hastings, , cushions; Mr. and Mrs. Hilder (Hastings), silver cake stand; Miss Mary Hilder (Hastings). silver dish.. Miss N. Farrell and Mr. D. Simmons, electric table lamp; Mr. Bassett (Hastings), pair of sheets; Miss P. Taylor (Berks.), pillow cases, table runner and duchesse set; Mr. and Mrs. Harding, bedspread: Mr. and Mrs. Norris, tablecloth.
Miss Deeprose (Hooe), glass dishes: Mr and Mrs. Lewis and Mr. and Mrs. Tooth (Hooe), fruit set; Mr. and Mrs. Pilbeam and Mr. and Mrs. Burt, aluminium kettle: Mr. and Mrs. Farmer (Ninfield), scales and, weights; Miss H. Tarry and Air. A. Tarry (Ninfield), towels; Mr. S. Dodson and Mr. Cattenden (Hooe), fish fryer and tablecloth; Mr. and Mrs. Larkin and Vera (Hooe), tea cloth and runner.
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery, pillow cases; Miss D. Foreman, towels; Miss E. Mills, duchesse set; Miss J. Conolley, pillow cases; Mr. and Mrs. Masters, present; Mr. and Mrs. C. Smith (Hooe), knives; Mr. Shindler, silver butter dish; Mr. and Mrs. A. Freeman (Hooe),. half dozen wine glasses; Master F. Saunter (Hooe), cake stand; Mr. and Mrs. Bourner (Hooe) duchesse set; the Misses M. and K. Egan, table runner: Mr. and Mrs. T. Mepham, present; Miss Norah and Master Paddy Pearson, egg timer Mrs. W. Cornford (Hooe), teapot; Mrs. Roberts and Miss Doris Roberts, tablecloth.
From the Bexhill Observer, 17th April 1937
HOOE WHIST DRIVE FOR BAND FUNDS A successful drive, arranged by Mrs B, Smith, Mrs H. Barton, and Mrs H. Smith, was held in the Village Hall last week. There were 16 tables and the prize winners were: - Ladies: 1. Mrs Hudson, 182; 2. Mrs E. Pocock, 172; 3. Mrs C. Clifton, 172; consolation, Mrs E. Taylor, 136; lowest score first half Miss I. Philpot, 64; longest at one table, Miss P. Smith. Gentlemen: 1. Mr S. Ballard, 184; 2. Mr B. Pocock, 178; 3. Mr G. Carey, 171; consolation, Mrs Philpot, 128; lowest in first half Mr G. Sutton; longest at one table, Mr J. Mitten and Mr Brown.
A competition realised 1 8s, the prize being won by Miss D. Brook.
Mr B. Philpot was M. C. Mr Berthon Sparkes J. P. Chairman of the Band Committee, thanked those who had given prizes and refreshments. The money raised was 5 11s 6d for the band funds.
(From the Bexhill Observer, 9th July 1938)
PRESENTATION TO BANDMASTER
An interesting presentation was made to Mr H. H. Smith, bandmaster of the Hooe Prize Band, last Friday, when the band was entertained at Court Lodge by the President (Mr H. E. Froy) and Mrs Froy.
The gifts, a walnut clock in case, inscribed, "To Mr H. H. Smith, in recognition of his services to the Hooe Band, from its many admirers" and a medal inscribed, "To Mr H. H. Smith, in recognition of services rendered to the Hooe Band, from its members" were handed to the bandmaster by Mrs Froy, and Mr Smith made suitable acknowledgement. Mr Froy congratulated the members of the band of their success at Tunbridge Wells and West Chiltington, and the way in which they worked with the bandmaster. Mr H. Clifton expressed thanks to Mrs Froy for making the presentation, and to Mr Froy for the interest he took in the band.
INSURANCE FOR THE BAND'S EQUIPMENT
Or The Claim That Never Was!
During the last war, the Village Hall suffered bomb damage and, because the Bands instruments were thought to have been stored there, my grandfather, as Clerk to the Parish Council, put in a claim to the insurance company. Some correspondence flowed both ways until it was found that the instruments had never been in the Village Hall in the first place! For some unknown reason they had been removed but the correspondence isnt clear as to who removed them or to where they were taken.
Anyway, my grandfather had to write an apologetic letter to the insurance company and, from what the letter said, I dont think he was too pleased at not being told about their removal!
His letter, dated 22nd July 1942, to the insurance company reads as follows:
Since I wrote to you on the (no date given) I have learnt that the Hooe Band instruments were removed months ago - when the Hall was used as a dormitory by the Hone Guard.
Because the instruments ware stored in a large cupboard, their removal was not noticeable. The Band should have notified me of their removal. I am trying to learn when the instruments were taken away; according to what I have been told today, it appears to have been nine months ago.
Yours faithfully,
JJN
Clerk
