THE Royal Marines School of Music band has performed in Alton for the annual Bob Simmonds Memorial Concert.

The concert, which raised the roof of All Saints Church, is dedicated to the late Mr Simmonds, who was originally from Alton and was one of the bandsmen who lost his life in the terrorist bombing at the Royal Marines barracks in Deal, Kent, in September 1989.

This year, the band was conducted by Warrant Officer Class 1 band master Ross Hunt and band sergeant Sarah Louise Hope, who thrilled a packed audience of more than 200 at the church where Bob’s sister, the Reverend Jane Walker, was a former curate.

The church was decked out with red, white and blue flags with blue candles in the windows, and the concert began with the National Anthem.

The music was interspersed with lively chat and stories from Ross and Sarah, engaging the audience and bringing the whole evening together. The audience were given a real insight into the training and dedication of the musicians.

Many of the musicians were playing on instruments which weren’t their “first” instrument, Ross explained, but nonetheless the music flowed effortlessly and flawlessly. Some, like Sgt Hope, were being assessed for final exams and are hoping to pass out soon.

The music played was a selection of traditional marching music, classical and contemporary pieces, so there was something for everyone. Particularly rousing was Orpheus in the Underworld, which features the music better known as the Can Can, the emotive Sunset featuring two buglers, and finally Love Changes Everything, as a tribute to those killed in the Deal bombing of 1989, featuring an introduction of haunting drum roll and notes played on wine-glasses, in which 11 tubular bell strikes were made in memory of the marines who lost their lives.

Associate vicar Reverend David Hinks said of the performance: “Once again the band completely enthralled us with their skill and heartfelt performance. The standing ovation at the end was well deserved. They simply are the best of Britain and we look forward to welcoming the band back next year.

“Our special relationship with the band here at All Saints’ gets stronger every year.”

The church concert raised £2,500 for the Fire Fighters Charity.