Farewell to another fine player from the Euph & Cello club, we have certainly had many great players in that catergory over the years. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time. My son simon will be accompanying me to the Albert Hall this coming Friday to check out the Massed Bands Concert, so expect to see and hear some great Military Band Music, perhaps have a chat with the King ! but most of all, look forward to an excellent evening of music making from the worlds best....See you in the Countermarch......Michael.

Good morning,

So sorry to hear the news that John Sharp has crossed the bar. As Rodney has said, he was a fine musician he also possessed a great sense of humour. We served together In HERMES 62/64 commission.
RIP John.

Mike

It is with great sadness that I write to report that John Sharp died in Niort Hosp France last night.
(10th Mar)

I'm sure there are many of you who will remember John as a fine Euph and Cello.

Good morning,

Many of you may remember Lewis (Lew) Sykes, Cornet and Violin, we served together in HMS HERMES 1962/4 under the baton of Graham Hoskins. We have been great mates ever since.
A few weeks ago Lewis was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. I went to see him yesterday at his home in Selsey. He is bed bound and is accepting of the outcome. We spent a couple of hours chatting and at time there were tears but also laughter.
I know that his wife Audrey, is appreciative of the support in the form of phone calls from former colleagues and friends. please keep them in your thoughts at this difficult time.

Yours, Mike

[Editor] You're a good man plz tell him I have him in my prayers.

Hi Richard,

Interesting article from George Latham but it then raised a question from my Squadie Bill Hartland. We both knew George but neither of us could remember if he was in our squad or not. So Richard if it is possible would you be able to contact George and give him my email address? Would love to hear from him.

My best regards to all of those who are still on this site.

Cheers from Down Under,

Eric.

John Borrington

A very good write up by one of John's son's, who detailed much about John I wasn't aware of, desite having served with him.....

As soon as I boarded HMS Lion, I was summoned to the Bridge, where John was waiting with my fellow Solo Clart, Ginge Feather. John then told us both that I was to be the Principal Clarinet! For those who wouldn't know, it was a procedure that the longest serving was to lead and others follow. Ginge bless his little soul, didn't make any protest as I pointed out to John that seniority counted as to who did what and how, but John was resolute and that was that.

The events of that Pier Head jump resulted in Dodger Long telephoning me and asking would I like to go to HMS Terror for 30 months on a married accompanied draft. I served with Dodger in the Home Fleet and HMS Drake.

I have emailed others of Johns address and the Christian name of Johns widow. His Son Mark has noted that.

Dear Richard ,

69 years ago today, 20 new recruits arrived in snowy Deal. Sadly only 3 of us (of the ones who got rated) are left. Mike Tellick, Ray Grant and myself.

Many cherished memories of 18 years service . With no hesitation I would do the same again. Proud to be associated with the great Band Service Family �

Regards to all

Barry

Farewell John Borrington. He and I were involved in cricket and hockey for the Band Service and the Corps Teams from time to time and although having not served together I suppose we were friends from time to time. He took over my Band at Manadon when I left for the Royal Academy of Music, but the Band there didnt last much longer and were posted to other Bands in the area. I regret I cannot recall his wife's name or their address so if anyone can help perhaps you could let me have them. Many thanks Michael.

[Editor] Yes I shall forward to you later.

Very sorry to hear of the passing of John Borrington. I had quite a good time with him on my Pier Head Junp to HMS Lion, with a cruise around South America.

R.I.P. John.

Bill.

Hi Richard, Bizzarre and B----dy frustrating. Keep warm over there.

Bill,glad you can still remember the lingo of the far away Far east. My Amah spent months teaching me to say Happy Birthday but i can't remember it now. Those were the days.Just how much are the present day people in the Band Service missing with no Sea time or foreign posting.But I suppose a Degree is for them a far better outcome.

Anyway todays bands are really something to be proud of. I look forward to ths years MFof M which i watch throughYoutube.

A question was asked several months ago re,how many RMB/Xs are left. Can't be many but Bill and I will carry us through as long as we can !!!!!!!!!!!

Cheers to you all,

Eric.