Troops in Bristol

The Household Troops Band (Bandmaster Major John Mott) provided a memorable weekend when they commenced their 2009 Summer Tour at Bristol Easton.

Many “Troopers” had traveled long distances, but all were present for lunch on Saturday and, after a short period of refreshment, were ready to commence the weekend with a march through the town of Keynsham. After the march, the band presented a full hour-long program in the beautiful Keynsham Park with hundreds of people attending. This was a significant occasion because it was the inaugural concert in the new Bandstand commissioned by the Town Council. Staple Hill Salvationist Paul Campbell, who was present at the concert, had been awarded the commission to design the Bandstand.

On Sunday, the Household Troops Band and their Executive Officer, Lt.-Col. David Phillips lead morning worship, where beautiful music enhanced the powerful message delivered by Lt.-Col. Phillips.

Bristol was blessed with fine weather during the weekend, and this enabled the Household Troops Band to make full use of the final musical event, again held in the open air in central Bristol. The venue chosen was College Green, which is situated in the forefront of the Council House, the seat of local government for Bristol City Council, with the magnificent backdrop of Bristol Cathedral.

During the weekend many thousands of people came under the influence of the band and, as a result, the Christian message.