It was a popular tradition that saw a community-based marching band regularly perform to thousands of people at community events across the region.
The Southwold and Reydon Corps of Drums was founded in 1981, but the band fell silent three years ago after finding it increasingly difficult to recruit new members.
Having closed in 2017, the band is now aproaching the end of the three-year period required by the group’s constitution before the instruments and uniforms are disposed of.
And it has launched a final call for support to “take on the running of the band” and revive one of “Southwold’s traditions.”
A spokesman for the military-style marching band said: “As many people will know, sadly the Southwold and Reydon Corps of Drums closed back in 2017.
“The decision was taken by the committee following a number of public appeals over the years to garner support from the wider community.
“Financial support for the band had always been forthcoming from generous local organisations, individuals and Southwold Town Council, but money was never the problem. A lack of people to run and perform in the band has plagued it for years.
“Since it’s official closure in 2017, members of the band have had a number of requests to perform at a variety of functions and also people commenting it was such a shame to lose the band, it was one of Southwold’s traditions.
“But without people, no instruments can be played, no uniforms can be worn and no traditions can be upheld.
“So the Remembrance and Civic parades, Christmas lights switch-ons and Lions Fete, to name just a few, will never be quite the same.
“So it with great sadness that we have to give formal notice to the people of the district that if no persons come forward to take on the running of the band by July 31, 2020, the processes under the constitution will be moved forward and the assets of the band will be sold and the funds distributed to other local organisations.”
Anyone wishing to make contact with the trustees and committee can do so by writing to Southwold Town Hall, Southwold Town Council, Town Hall, Market Place, Southwold, IP18 6EF. Alternatively, call 01502 722576 or email admin@southwoldtowncouncil.com
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