Gravesend Hall Reopens with Fellowship Band Festival

The Salvation Army hall in Gravesend was reopened on Friday, 4 November 2005, following a renovation. The occasion was marked with a musical festival by the South London Fellowship Band (conducted by Major George Whittingham). Prior to the festival, there was a brief dedication service led by Gravesend commanding officer Captain Harry Stirling and attended by the Mayor of Gravesend and the Divisional Commander, Major Anthony Cotterill. The concert was used as a fund-raising opportunity, with more than £400 collected for the Gravesend refurbishment fund.

The festival included Joyous Proclamation, The Canadian, Hymns of Praise, and None Other Name. The euphonium duet Serenata was presented by Bram Chestney and John Hockley. John Rodgers played the tuba solo Standing on the Promises. Two vocal soloists were also featured. Bill Davis sang The Holy City and Leslie Swift offered Standing on Holy Ground. The Scripture reading was presented by SLFB member and retired Gravesend Bandmaster Brian Hillyer, who took the opportunity to thank local individuals and the churches, organizations and businesses who contributed to the refurbishment effort.