Just as in the Gospels two or more historians are better than one. Entries inlude additional detail from 1993 as recorded by former Corps Sergeant Major Peter Wood.
1990
January
7 and 14
Bible studies were held on both afternoons and attended by about 30 comrades.
W/E 20/21
Y P Annual weekend was led by Captain and Mrs D Scott. On the Saturday evening the young people presented Kids Praise 3 to an enthusiastic congregation.
28
S D Sunday meetings were led by Major G Downey, during the afternoon he gave a graphical account of the Army’s work in developing countries.
March
15
The Songsters participated in the Inter Corps Fellowship held at Chatham.
17
The second Barn Dance to be organised was held at the Ebenezer Church Hall and proved very popular.
24
The Divisional Youth Band and Chatham Songsters presented a musical festival to a full and appreciative congregation.
25
Mother’s Day meetings were led by Colonel and Mrs J Dale.
31
Band visited Wickford Corps.
April
1
The Bishop of Rochester, Michael Turnbull, preached in the Holiness Meeting. From 11. 15 – 12. 00 a good number of Corps folk took part in the World Wide Prayer Vigil.
7
The pre-tour festival given by the Band and supported by the Maidenhead Quartet proved to be very enjoyable evening. The singing of the Quartet thrilled those present. An evening of this quality deserved a larger congregation which suffered from lack of advertising.
8
The band took part in the Palm Sunday procession at Snodland.
13
Good Friday. The D C Major Jessie Dawson, led the meetings for the day and the Band led the procession to the Pentagon for a United Churches Service.
Week 20-27
The Band conducted a tour of the North of England and Scotland.
May
5
The singing company visited the Corps at Maldon where Captain and Mrs Peter Dixon our stationed.
12
A well attended Divisional Soldiers rally was held by the Chief Secretary: I Cutmore who was supported by Chatham Band, Margate Songsters and Gillingham Signing Company.
13
Colonel I Cutmore led the days meetings which were of a very high spiritual value, seekers were recorded during the Holiness Meeting and a senior soldier was enrolled during the Salvation Meeting.
W/E 19/20/21
Home League Weekend. Major Mrs C Griffin, Secretary Handicapped Association, led the weekend’s meetings. Saturday at 7. 00 Upper Norwood Band presented a festival which was well attended.
June
10
YP Anniversary. Interesting and varied meetings were led by the leaders and young people. The afternoon Praise meeting taking the form of a musical tattoo.
16
Annual Burma Festival. This was arranged by the Songsters. The guest soloist was Songster Leader Susan Turner who delighted the congregation with her contrasting solos. The Band and Songsters contributed to a very enjoyable evening. The compere, Commissioner Dudley Coles, International Secretary for South Asia, made the appeal on behalf of the Army’s work in Burma.
24
Candidate Janet Sneller farewelled to her parent’s home at Tunbridge Wells before entering the I T C.
26
The Passedena Tabernacle Songsters from California USA, visited Chatham as part of their tour of England to coincide with the International Congress in London. They presented a very lively and relaxed programme to a packed and enthusiastic congregation. During the day, as well as visiting the historical parts of Rochester, they were afforded a civic reception with the Mayor in the Council Chambers.
July
1
The Songsters participated in the chorus for the Congress at Wembley.
7
The signing company participated in the Youth Spectacular at Wembley.
August
21
The Divisional farewell of Candidate Janet Sneller to the ITC took place at the Gillingham Corps.
31
The final festival of the Canterbury Divisional School of Music was held at Chatham and was well attended.
September
2
After much prayerful support the first of hopefully many outreach programmes at Upchurch was commenced. Almost 100 local people were present, several of whom had been contacted by Ray and Rosemary Player on their War Cry ministry.
23
Harvest celebrations were led by Colonel and Mrs Colin Logan. The Senior Hall was beautifully decorated with flowers by Songster Leader Verna Smith and during the afternoon praise Meeting the children presented baskets of fruit etc. It had been decided to allocate the Altar Service money to purchase a fridge freezer for the Vill Dell Prague Corps in Buenes Aires in Brazil and the sum of £525. 00 was donated for this purpose.
24
A very enjoyable harvest supper and auction concluded the harvest celebrations.
30
The second outreach programme at Upchurch was conducted by the YP Corps.
October
W/E 6/7
The visit of Birmingham Citadel Band attracted good congregations throughout the weekend and thought provoking meetings were led by their CO Major West supported by members of the Band.
14
Farewell greetings were given to Pippa prior to her leaving on 17th October to work for 10 months in a home for disabled children in Tanzania.
20
The Band presented a festival at St John’s Church, Chatham in aid of their roofing fund.
21
The band took part in the service for One World Week at Rochester Cathedral.
November
4
Commitment Sunday was led by Canon Muriel Pargetter and was in the form of a retreat and included Bible study, group discussions on Church growth. The YP Corps had their own activities and lunch and tea were provided.
W/E17/18
117th Corps Anniversary was led by Lieutenant Colonel D Tribble. Saturday evening commenced with a popular informal gathering organised by Paul Woodhouse. The Colonel outlined the Army’s growth in Eastern Europe in particular Czechoslavakia.
24
Major Leslie Condon Memorial Trust Festival was held at Chatham and an evening of superb music was presented by Ilford Songsters, Brian Midgely, Trombone soloist from Norwich Citadel and Chatham Band. The programme was compared by Major Robert Redhead the Bandmaster of the I S B.
December
2
Bible Sunday meetings were led by Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs L Jardine.
W/E 8/9
The Central Hall Carol Services were sold out several weeks in advance. Adverse weather conditions on Sunday were responsible for smaller congregations than normal.
25
Major Geleit and several Corps comrades entertained about 40 elderly and lonely folk at the Hall.
1991
January
W/E 12/13
Major and Mrs John Dangerfield conducted Church Growth seminars on Saturday afternoon and evening which were both interesting and challenging. Sunday’s meetings were led by the Major and his wife and during the afternoon the first seeker at Upchurch was recorded.
19
Day of Prayer at the U R C Clover Street, Chatham 8 am to 8 pm. The Salvation Army responsible for period 4 pm – 6 pm.
20
YP Annual meetings led by Candidates Stuart at Rosemary Gilbert from Upper Norwood.
27
Self- Denial Sunday meetings were led by Major and Mrs David Burrows.
February
24
The D C, Major Jessie Dawson, led the meetings.
March
1
Women’s World Day of Prayer held at the Citadel.
2
Barn Dance at the Coronation Hall.
3
Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs Roy Girling led the meetings. The launch of Y R B Club took place after Sunday School.
23
The Band visited Maidenhead.
24
The Band led the Palm Sunday procession at Snodland.
29
Good Friday. Lieutenant Colonel David Guy led the meetings for the day and the Band led the procession to the Pentagon for a United Churches Service.
April
14
Major Mike Williams, IHQ Personnel Officer conducted the days meetings.
W/E 20/21
The Band visited Birmingham Citadel and renewed friendships created during their visit to Chatham last year.
May
W/E 4/5/6
The band, led by Major Geleit, visited Dublin City Corps. The only Corps in Southern Ireland. Leaving Heathrow airport at 11am they arrived at the Hall at 1.30 pm. Following an impressive march of witness in brilliant sunshine, the Mayor afforded them a civic reception at the Mansion House. The evening festival, which was well attended, was held in the City Mission. On Sunday the Holiness Meeting was held in the Salvation Army Hall, while the afternoon and evening meetings were held in the Brethren Hall. The Sunday evening open air meeting was held in O’Connell Street and attracted much interest. The Salvation Meeting which followed a stirring march of witness, lasted for three hours and was a very moving experience. On Monday we arrived at the S A Hall at 5 am for the journey home after what was a very tiring but very inspirational weekend.
11
The Songsters visited the Corps at Depford.
12
Candidates Sunday. The DYS Captain David Scott led the meetings for the day.
W/E 18/19/20
Home League weekend. This commenced with the visit of Maidenhead Band whose enjoyable programme was well attended.
Major and Mrs William Spriggs – retired, conducted the meetings and participated in the afternoon Praise Meeting.
26
As a Corps we said farewell to Major Laina Geleit who is moving on to the Hinckley Corps in Leicestershire. During the five year term at Chatham we have valued the hard work in the Corps and the local community. We welcome Major and Mrs A. Gurr from the Blackheath – Birmingham, Corps and pray that God will richly bless them during their stay at Chatham.
June
5
The Band presented a festival in the Upchurch Parish Church as part of their Festival of Music Week.
6
The Divisional Welcome Meeting to the new officers to the Canterbury Division was conducted by the DC Lieutenant Colonel Jessie Dawson.
22
Annual Burma Festival was arranged by the band. The guests were the Rainham Ladies Choir and Jonathan Lawrence – Hendon, xylophone, supported by the band. Lieutenant Colonel Ron Johnson made the appeal on behalf of the Army’s work in Burma and the sum of £450 was raised.
30
A party of 16 from Dublin City Corps attended the Salvation Meeting on their way home from holidaying in France and were billeted with various Corps folk.
July
7
The band took part in a Beach Meeting at Sheerness which was led by the local Corps folk and attracted considerable interest.
W/E 13/14
YP anniversary was led by Major Malcolm Jones. Saturday evening featured the Christchurch Youth Group who presented various lively gospel songs. Our own young people presented several drama items which contributed to a very enjoyable evening. Sunday’s meetings were conducted by Major Jones which prominently featured the young people.
September
1
The dedication of the new Piano took place which was made available from a legacy of five thousand pounds from the late Mrs Phyllis Timson.
14
The Band presented a festival at Luton Church, Chatham as part of their tenth anniversary celebrations.
15
Harvest celebrations were led by Major and Mrs Gurr and the Senior Hall was attractively decorated with flowers by Songster Leader Verna Smith.
October
W/E 7/8
The band recorded their second tape in the Dockyard Church.
W/E 19/20
The Songsters visited Maidenhead.
November
16
Major Leslie Condon Memorial Trust Festival was held at Gillingham and featured Margate Songsters and Gillingham and Chatham bands. The programme was compered by Lieutenant Colonel G Perry.
24
118th Anniversary meetings were led by former soldiers of the Corps CSM John and Ann Ward.
December
W/E 7/8
The Central Hall Carol Concerts were sold out several weeks in advance. Special guests were the National Evangelist, Mike and Jenny Clarke, from Rushden, who enthralled the congregation with their versatility and professionalism. A donation of £940, part of the collections, was made to Medway Cyrenians to assist them in their work amongst the homeless people of the Medway Towns.
25
Major and Mrs Gurr and several Corps comrades entertained about 40 elderly and lonely folk at the Hall for the day. On Christmas Day a Service was held at 11am which was attended by the Corps folk and those being entertained at the Hall
1992
January
W/E 11/12
The I S S visited Chatham for the weekend. Lieutenant Colonel N Bearcroft compered the programmes and Lieutenant Colonel Ivor Rich led the devotional meetings. The festivals were of a high quality and well attended.
18
The Divisional Soldiers Rally was held by Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs Ray Holdstock, supported by the DC and other Divisional Staff. The sections participating were Maidstone Songsters, Margate YP Band and Chatham Band. The Hall was well filled for an inspiring meeting which highlighted the outreach progress during 1991.
26
YP annual meetings were led by Mike Woodhouse and Ray Maycock.
February
2
The Annual Appeal launch day.
9
Major Bernard Philips led the meetings which included the Senior Altar Service.
March
1
The D Y S, Captain and Mrs David Scott, led the Holiness Meeting and attended the Y R B Club.
W/E 14/15
The Signing Company visited the Corps at Woodbridge. The meetings were led by Mike Woodhouse.
15
The D C Lieutenant Colonel Jessie Dawson and her assistant Captain Miller led the days meetings.
April
12
Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs Stephen Pallent led the days meetings and three Senior Soldiers were enrolled.
W/E 25/26/27
Home League Weekend commenced on Saturday evening with the visit of Sutton Band. The interesting and varied programme was compered by Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs Ray Steadman-Allen who also led the meetings on Sunday. The weekend concluded on Monday with a united rally. On Sunday, St Georges Day, the Band led the annual Scouters Parade.
30
The band took part in the the BBC Radio Kent Lent Course Service held in Rochester Cathedral. The very enjoyable Service was broadcast live on Radio Kent.
May
2
The Signing Company visited the Corps at Aylesbury.
3
Meetings for the day were led by Candidates Janet Sneller and Julian Rowley who both entered the I T C from Chatham.
9
The Songsters visited the Corps at Hythe.
11
A Cabaret evening, organised by the YP Band and Signing Company, to raise funds for Alison and Iain Hudson’s entry into the ITC, was an enjoyable and well attended evening.
30
The Band visited Bromley Temple Corps.
June
7
Meetings for the day were led by the new D Y S Captain D Radford.
July
W/E 3/4
YP Anniversary Weekend. The YP Corps presented two professional and lively performances of “Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat” to an appreciative and capacity congregation.
5
Sunday’s meetings were led by Captain Monk and Captain Ramsey both from Sittingbourne. During the afternoon Community Meeting the young people presented excerpts from “Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”.
26
The band took part in a Beach Meeting at Sheerness which attracted considerable interest.
September
20
Harvest celebrations were led by Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Perry. The Senior Hall was beautifully decorated with flowers by Songster Leader Verna Smith. During the afternoon Meeting the children presented baskets of fruit etc.
21
A “Knosh and Knowledge night” had been arranged and took the form of a team quiz and buffet evening followed by the auction of produce etc.
27
Meetings for the day were led by the new C O’s at Gillingham, Captain and Mrs Frost.
October
3
The YP Corps presented “Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at Ramsgate to a capacity congregation.
24
The annual Burma festival and the Songsters 90th Anniversary were combined and the evening commenced with a reunion tea attended by present and former members of the Brigade. The festival, which was well attended, was supported by the band and compered by Deputy Songster leader David French of Portsmouth Citadel, a former Leader of Chatham Songsters.
25
The band took part in the “One World Week” Service held at Rochester Cathedral.
November
1
Commitment Sunday. Meetings for the day were led by Major and Mrs Gurr.
21
Major Lesley Condon Memorial Trust Festival was held at Chatham and featured Songsters Deryn Edwards, ISS, Margate Songsters and Chatham bands. The programme was compered by Lieutenant Colonel Ray Steadman-Allen.
22
Major and Mrs Brown, former CO’s, conducted the meetings which concluded the Corps Talent Scheme for the year.
29
Corps anniversary 119th. Meetings were led by Commissioner William Rivers, a former D C of the Canterbury Division.
December
W/E 12/13
The Central Hall Carol Concerts were again sold out several weeks in advance. As well as the Mayor and other Civic Leaders the MP for mid- Kent, Andrew Rowe and his wife and Dame Peggy Fenner, MP for Rochester and Chatham and her husband also attended. A donation of £1,125. 00, half of the collections, was made to the Kent Air Ambulance appeal.
15
The Band and Songsters presented a Carol Service in the parish Church at Upchurch.
25
Major and Mrs Gurr and several Corps comrades entertained about 40 elderly and lonely folk at the Hall for the day. A Christmas Day Service was held at 10:30am which was attended by the Corps folk and those being entertained at the Hall.
1993
Jan 17
The D C Colonel J Dawson conducted the meetings during the day and visited the Upchurch outpost in the afternoon.
Jan 18
3rd Annual Band and Songster Dinner at Sunbury Court. Lt. Col.& Mrs Bearcroft were guests.
Jan 24
Y P Annual meetings were led by the Y P workers and included the afternoon community meeting.
Feb 7
Major Harold Stone (I T C) conducted meetings which included the Senior Altar Services.
Feb 27
The Band visited the Corps at Sutton.
Mar 6/7
The Band visited the Hinckley Temple Corps and renewed friendship with Major Laina Geleit the previous C O at Chatham.
Apr 4
The Band led the Palm Sunday procession at Snodland.
Apr 9
Major and Mrs Gurr conducted the meetings and the Band led the procession to the Pentagon for a United Churches Service. Over 200 people at the final meeting. “I’ll go in the Strength of the Lord” brought a cheer at the end. “The War Cry” now being sold after a period as a free paper.
Apr 18
Jim Scott, Manager at Medway Hospital ran the London Marathon – proceeds in aid of the Chatham Salvation Army.
Apr 19
Major Ramsey Caffull supported by the D C Colonel J Dawson met with soldiers from Chatham, Gillingham and Strood to outline the changes to the Annual Appeal Campaign for 1994.
Thurs 22
The Band took part in the B B C Radio Kent Lent Course Service held in Rochester Cathedral.. Band with “Parable” from Christchurch again led the singing and played “Easter Sing along” Broadcast ‘Live’.
May1/2
The Y P Band visited the Corps at Redhill. The meetings at the Corps were conducted by Major and Mrs Gurr during which six adherents and four Senior Soldiers were enrolled.
Fri 7
The Band took part in a Memorial Service for Mary Brown a neighbour of Bev and Marjorie Hudson at St Thomas’s R C Church Rainham. An amount of £365 was raised towards Cancer Research.
May 10/11
Home League Weekend. The meetings on Sunday and the Rally on Monday were led by Mrs Lieutenant Colonel Menary D C East London Division.
May 16
Colonel Ray Holdstock, the Field Secretary led the Holiness Meeting and visited the Outpost at Upchurch in the afternoon. The Band took part in a United Churches Open Air Meeting in Capstone Country Park in the afternoon. United Churches Open Air Service at Capstone Park ‘Parable’ and the Senior Band joined to provide music but the venue was wrong, all the people were on the other side of the lake.
June13
YP Singing Company at Guildford for Sunday Meetings.
Fri 18
Various young people slept out at Buckmore Park to raise money for the Corps Mini Bus funds.
Sat19
The Summer Festival was arranged by the Songsters who were supported by the Band and students from the Gillingham Music Centre. The proceeds were donated to the Carers Relief Service and an amount of £315 was raised.
June26
Barbeque Breakfast at CSM’s house again in aid of Corps Soup Run.
July4
The Songsters visited the Corps at Margate.
July 7
Moscow Central Corps YP Singing Company at Folkestone. – many Chatham Folk present.
W/E 10/11
Y P Anniversary weekend. The meetings for the weekend were led by the D Y S Captain and Mrs David Radford, the Baden Powell sections presented a “Gang Show” type meeting on the Saturday evening. The meetings on Sunday were led by the D Y S and his wife and the Praise/Salvation meeting which commenced at 4 pm was followed by a Corps barbecue.
Aug 7
Wedding at the Corps of Chris & Kate Boughton.
Aug 15
Upchurch Outpost Open Air Meeting – Band and Songsters took part – good weather, good crowd.
Sept 2-4
Hall fitted with coded Burglar Alarm following several break-ins.
Sep 11
The Band presented a Festival at St David’s Church Walderslade as part of their twentieth Anniversary celebrations.
Sep 15
Operation “Red Shield” first organisation meeting held at Chatham.
Sep 18
Harvest weekend celebrations were conducted by Major and Mrs Gurr. They commenced with a “Knosh and Knowledge” evening on Saturday. The Senior Hall was as usual attractively decorated with flowers by Songster Leader Verna Smith.
Oct 11
The Ladies Fellowship was re- launched.
Oct 16/17
Songsters away at Nuneaton
Oct 24
The Band took part in the “One World Week” service at St Augustine’s Church Gillingham.
Oct 31
Dedication of daughter of Susan Mumford (nee Hales)
Nov14
Band headed Remembrance Parade again. Enrolment of 3 soldiers – Barbara Langley, Sid and Daisy Southby and 3 Adherents – Barbara, Ethel and Gladys.
Nov 20/21
120th Corps Anniversary commenced with an Autumn Festival which was attended by the Deputy Mayor of Rochester Upon Medway City Council. Special guests were Don Lusher (trombone) at Martin Posnett (vocal) who were supported by the senior Band. The capacity congregation was enthralled by the talents of our guests and an amount of £370 was donated to the Medway Hospital Scanner Appeal. The meetings on Sunday were led by Major and Mrs Steve Russell, former soldiers of the Corps and included the culmination of the Corps Talent Scheme.
Dec11/12
The Central Hall Carol Concerts were sold out several weeks in advance and were attended by the mayor and other civic leaders of Rochester upon Medway City Council as well as the M P for Mid- Kent, Andrew Rowe and his wife and the M P for Rochester and Chatham Dame Peggy Fenner and her husband. A donation of £985, half of the collections, was made to the Medway Hydro-Therapy Pool Appeal.
Dec 14
The Band and Songsters presented a Carol Service in the parish Church at Upchurch.
Dec 25
Major and Mrs Gurr and several Corps comrades entertained about 40 elderly and lonely folk at the Hall for the day. A Christmas Day Service was held at 10:30 am which was attended by the Corps folk and those being entertained at the Hall. 6 Volunteer Bandsmen played again at the “The Molly Wisdom Hospice” following the meeting.
1994
Jan16
The Songsters took part in a Divisional Celebration of Faith meeting at Margate.
Jan 23
Y P Annual meetings were led by the Y P workers and included the afternoon Community meeting. – Caitlyn Bale enrolled as Junior Soldier
Jan 29
The Band and Rainham Ladies Choir presented a Festival in All Saints Church Maidstone to raise funds for the Imperial Cancer Research Fund. – £438.90 raised.
Jan 30
The Corps folk from Chatham Gillingham and Strood met at the Gillingham Corps for the Salvation meeting which was led by the D C Lieutenant Colonel J Dawson and incorporated the launch are the Red Shield Door knock appeal in the Medway Towns.
Feb6
John & Elaine enrolled as Adherents
Feb 20
Missionary Sunday meetings were led by Colonel and Mrs T Cotterill who had spent several years working in Ghana and gave vivid accounts of the Army’s work in that country. The meetings also included the Personal Giving Altar Services.
Mar 5/6
Visit of Bristol Eastern Singing Company. An interesting and varied programme on Saturday evening was compered by Paul Woodhouse and the meetings on Sunday were led by the Signing Company members. (Pippa Jones Sgt.)
Mar 12
The Divisional Annual Appeal Ingathering was led by the D C Lieutenant Colonel Jesse Dawson and featured the use of the Red Shield Door knock method of collecting in the Medway Towns. A composite Band from Chatham Gillingham and Strood and Canterbury Temple Songsters provided suitable music.
Red Shield Appeal raised £26,759.90 this year. £9,025 increase, 51% over last year. Chatham Altar Service, £3,306
Mar 20
The Songsters visited the Corps at Guildford.
Mar 24
The Band took part in the B B C Radio Kent Lent Course Service held in Rochester Cathedral.
Mar 27
Band at Snodland for Palm Sunday procession again.
Apr1
Good Friday Meetings and United Churches procession to Pentagon Centre.
Apr 2
Steve Burdett & Fiona married at Birmingham Citadel
Apr 30
Rebecca Gibbs & Tim married at Grays Corps.
May 1
Captain and Mrs D Ramsey led the meetings for the day. The content of the meetings was most appealing and varied, a feature being the contributions of the children.
May 8/9
Home League Weekend. The meetings were led by Ann and John Ward, former soldiers of the Corps, thought provoking meetings were interspersed with amusing anecdotes of Corps folk. The Rally on Monday was well attended by Home League members from neighbouring Corps.
May 21/22
Visit of delegates from the I C O. The Saturday evening meeting, which was held at Gillingham, was led by Commissioner Ian Cutmore and featured the delegates. Some were dressed in national costume. Chatham Songsters and Gillingham Band took part. On Sunday 12 delegates conducted stimulating meetings and shared their personal experience of the working of the Holy Spirit in their particular country.
May 26
Visit of the Sydney Staff Songsters, leader Major Ivan Lang. The capacity congregation thrilled to the relaxed, thought provoking and humorous programme which was presented.
Jun 4/5
The Senior Band visited the Corps at Caterham. On the Saturday Evening the entire band presented a Festival in St John’s Church and on Sunday a party of bandsmen conducted the day’s meetings.
Jun 19/26
Annual Crematorium services with band and songsters taking part again as usual.
Jun 25
Barbeque Breakfast at Murray and Verna’s. The Senior Band visited the Corps at Southend and presented a varied Festival to an appreciative congregation.
Jun 26
In the absence of Major and Mrs Gurr, who were on furlough, Major and Mrs Trevor Davis conducted the Holiness meeting and dedicated Martin John Andrew the son are Greg and Margaret Davis.
Jul10
Y P Anniversary. The meetings were led by Y P S M Andy Millest from Gillingham, both the Holiness and the Salvation meetings were full of interest and thought provoking. Members of the choir from Rochester Girls Grammar School, of which Andy is the leader, contributed several items in the Salvation meeting.
Jul 16
A Pre Australia/New Zealand tour Festival was presented by bandsmen Richard and Sharon Phillips who were supported by Hendon Band. The Festival was compered by Major Trevor Davis and a capacity congregation were thrilled by the contributions of Richard, Sharon and the Band. It was considered by many to have been one of the best festivals presented in our Hall. Former CO’s Brigadier & Mrs Harold Black visited.
Sept 3
Band took part at Sheerness Beach meeting & march.
Sept 17/18
Harvest weekend celebrations commenced with a “Knosh and Knowledge” evening on Saturday and on Sunday the meetings were led by Lieutenant Colonel John Flett, Finance Secretary at I H Q and the attractive floral decorations were supplied by Songster Leader Verna Smith.
Oct 16
The D C Colonel J Dawson conducted the meetings during the day and visited the Upchurch Outpost in the afternoon.
Oct 23
The service for “One World Week” was held in the S A Hall after the Salvation Meeting and featured the Band and Songsters and local clergy.
Oct 29/30
The Band visited the Corps at High Wycombe.
Nov 20
Corps 121st Anniversary, Colonel and Mrs Stephen Pallent conducted the meetings throughout the day and with the Band and Songsters visited the Upchurch Outpost in the afternoon. YP Corps conducted an Open Air in Mount Road, outside the house that was the Quarters in early days (1906).
Nov 26
The newly formed rhythm group, “Origin”, presented a Festival to many non-Army youngsters.
Dec 3/4
The Central Theatre Carol Concerts were again sold out several weeks in advance and were attended by the Territorial Commander Commissioner Dinsdale and Mrs Pender, the D C Lieutenant Colonel J Dawson and supporting D H Q staff, on Sunday evening the mayor and other civic leaders of Rochester upon Medway City Council attended as well as the M P for Rochester and Chatham Dame Peggy Fenner and her husband. A donation of £1500, half of the collections, was made to the Demelza House Children’s Hospice.
Dec 18
Corps Carol Service.
Dec 21
Upchurch Outpost Christmas dinner at Sunbury Court was a lovely evening attended by a coach-load of villagers and corps folk. A good meal in beautiful surroundings and topped of by listening to the singing of Peter & Sylvia Dalziel.
Dec 25
Major and Mrs Gurr and several Corps comrades entertained about 40 elderly and lonely folk at the Hall for the day. A Christmas Day Service was held at 10 30 am followed by a few bandsmen playing at the Molly Wisdom Hospice.
1995
Jan 15
Y P Annual meetings were led by former Soldiers of Chatham, cadets Michael and Elizabeth Lloyd.
Jan 25
Youth Chorus at Canterbury
Jan 28
Celebration of Faith meeting led by the Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Earl Maxwell, supported by the D C and other Divisional staff. The Divisional over Sixties Band, Chatham Songsters and Gillingham Worship Band provided suitable music and exciting reports of Corps growth throughout the Division were given.
Jan 29
Captain Alan Redhead led the meetings for the day and the Salvation meeting incorporated the Launch of the Red Shield campaign.
Feb 5
Meetings for the day were led by Cadet and Mrs Paul Beardmorer, Holiness and Recruiting Sergeant Mike Woodhouse, Salvation meeting.
Feb 25
The Youth Chorus, under the leadership of Sharon Phillips visited the Corps at Canterbury Temple.
Feb 26
Meetings for the day were led by Captain Mike Caffull from the Church Growth department at T H Q.
Mar 4/5
Visit of High Wycombe Songsters, a varied and thought provoking Festival on Saturday evening commenced a spiritually stimulating weekend. The brigade featured in relaxed, well planned, festivals and meetings which concluded with two seekers during the Salvation meeting.
Mar 18/19
The Senior Band, led by Major Brown, visited the Corps at Gainsborough and presented varied festivals and challenging meetings which were well received.
A party of Cadets from the I T C conducted the day’s meetings.
Apr 2
Captain Beryl Beamish conducted the meetings for the day which included the Self- Denial Altar Services.
Apr 9
Palm Sunday procession at Snodland
Apr 10
The Senior Band took part in the B B C Radio Kent Lent Course Service held in Rochester Cathedral.
Apr 14
Good Friday meetings and procession with united churches as usual.
Apr 16
Dedication of Lewis Smith son of Peter & Dawn.
Apr 23
St Georges Day, The Band took part in the service at the Central Theatre, Chatham.
Apr 29
The Band presented a festival in St. Margaret’s Church High Halstow.
May 6
Youth Chorus programme at Margate
May 8
V E Day. Local Corps folk manned an army soup kitchen during the celebrations at Chatham historic dockyard.
May 20/21
Visit of Portsmouth Citadel Band, well prepared meetings enhanced the festivals which were varied, enjoyable and well attended.
May 28
Farewell to Major and Mrs Gurr, who in their last year of Officers were being appointed as Divisional Assistants.
Jun 3
The Band presented a Festival in St Stephens Church Chatham.
Jun 4
Welcome to Captain and Mrs Westwood, commenced with a Welcome Breakfast in the Y P Hall. The installation during the Holiness meeting was conducted by the D C Lieutenant Colonel Jesse Dawson.
Jun 8
The Songsters participated in the welcome meeting to the new officers to the Division, held at Maidstone.
Jun 17
The Songsters visited the Corps at Hythe, where former Soldiers, Michael and Elizabeth Lloyd are the newly appointed officers.
Jun 18/25
Annual Crematorium services with Band & Songsters.
Jul 8/9
Y P Anniversary. Special guests for the weekend were the “Saltmine” Children’s Team. The Saturday evening meeting featured Liz, Paul, Phil and Ruth from “Saltmine” who presented some lively and thought provoking items.
A composite Band, under the leadership of the Deputy Bandmaster presented suitable music and members of the Sunday School sang songs from a mini musical. Sunday’s meetings were led by the Children’s Team and during the Holiness meeting John Woodhouse was presented with the Chief Scout Award.
Jul 23
In the absence of Captain and Mrs Westwood, who were on furlough, Mike Woodhouse led the Holiness and Salvation meetings.
Jul 29
The Youth Chorus presented an interesting musical programme at Gillingham.
Aug 19
Wedding of Ruth & Paul Woodhouse at Chatham
Aug 20
The Salvation meeting was led by Lieutenant Colonel D Davies.
Sep 9
Y. P. Outing to Thorpe Park
Sep 10
Youth Chorus led evening meeting at Bromley
Sept 24/25
Harvest weekend celebrations commenced on Sunday with meetings led by Captain David Radford D Y S and concluded on Monday evening with a Barn Dance in the Lower Halstow village Hall. Songster Leader Verna Smith was again responsible for the lovely floral decorations.
Oct 6
Captain Westwood presented a plan of Church Growth which was attended by approximately 70 soldiers and friends etc.. The presentation emphasised that the Corps should be alive to the Holy Spirit to ensure its future.
Oct 7
The Songsters took part in a festival at Sittingbourne Baptist Church with Captain and Mrs Len Ballentine, other brigades from Gillingham, Strood supported by Sittingbourne Band and Songsters. £500 was raised for the Rotary Scanner.
Oct 8/9
Home League weekend meetings were led by Commissioner Mrs Ramsey and concluded with a rally on Monday.
Oct 14/15
Visit of Gainsborough Songsters. Aquaintances were renewed during the weekend when well prepared, relaxed festivals and thought provoking meetings were presented.
Oct 29
The Songsters took part in a Festival in the United Reform Church, Chatham during Nelson week.
Nov 5
Commitment Sunday. The implications of the Church Growth presentation have been given serious consideration and earnest prayer and a good number of Soldiers etc committed themselves to the general principles.
Nov12
Remembrance Day Parade led by the Band.
Nov 19
Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs Pressland, Under Secretary for Europe, conducted the day’s meetings.
Nov 26
Corps 122nd Anniversary. Captain and Mrs Westwood conducted the meetings. The Salvation meeting took the form of Chatham Corps presenting the gospel in music and song. Well attended by local folk friends and families.
Dec 2/3
The Central Theatre Carol Concerts were again sold out several weeks in advance. The D C Lieutenant Colonel Jesse Dawson and Captain E Miller were present Sunday afternoon and Sunday evening the mayor of Rochester upon Medway City Council was supported by other civic leaders. The charities which were sponsored, the Downs Heart Group and Handicap ’96 each received £810.
Dec 17
Corps Carol Service
Dec 20
Brigadier William Friend (R) formerly of Chatham Corps died aged 104 years.
Dec 25
Several Corps comrades entertained approximately 40 elderly and lonely people at the Hall for the day and the service which commenced at 10:30 was led by Captain Westwood. Christmas Morning meeting followed by volunteer Bandsmen visit to Hospice.
1996
Jan 15
First Rehearsal for Corps Musical ‘Thy Kingdom Come’
Feb 11
A major re-shuffle of Corps Local Officers took place with some long serving Locals retiring.
RETIRING:-
Corps Treasurer Christine Cline 10yrs
Group Scouter Peter Cline
YP Band Leader Barry Robinson 13yrs
Timbrel Leader Dawn Robinson 13yrs
Songster Secretary Margaret Day 4yrs
YPSM Peter Smith
Band Librarian Ken Lloyd 17yrs
Corps Secretary Graham Hatton 7yrs
Asst.YPSM Ray Maycock
INSTALLED & COMMISSIONED:-
Corps Treasurer Graham Hatton
Corps Secretary Andrew Pennington
Young Peoples Sergeant Major Ray Maycock
Asst.CSM. Kate Boughton
Asst.C/Sec. Allison Gray
Asst.C/Treas. Kylie Westwood
Asst.YPS/Co.Ldr.Carolynn Maycock
Home League Fellowship Secretary Pat Phillips
Songster Secretary Teresa Pennington
Asst.Songster Sgt.Heather Woodhouse
Asst.Corps Youth Sec’y Lisa Davis
” ” ” ” Fiona Burdett
” ” ” ” Paul Woodhouse
Asst. Home League Treasurer Audrey Holder
Adherent Secretary Mike Rowley
Timbrel Leader Ruth Woodhouse.
Mar 2
The Band and Songsters took part in a festival in the St John’s Church in Gravesend along with the Gravesend Band and Songsters.
Mar 17
Y P Annual meetings led by Samantha Wood and Ray Maycock. Afternoon meeting and evening meeting were joined as one and finished earlier allowing all mothers in the Corps to celebrate Mother’s Day in the Y P Hall with a special supper.
Mar 17
The meetings were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood and included the Self- Denial Altar Services.
Mar 31
Band at Snodland with united churches procession for Palm Sunday.
Apr 1
Band again broadcast from Rochester Cathedral as part of Radio Kent Lent Course Finale service
Apr 5
Good Friday meetings led by Captain and Mrs Westwood. The band led the procession to the Pentagon Centre for a United Churches service.
Apr 14
The meeting in the morning was led by Mike and Heather Woodhouse. The afternoon community was led by Murray Smith.
Apr 20
Chatham Band Festival at Gillingham Corps Anniversary led by Commissioner & Mrs Harry Read (R) conducted by Deputy Bandmaster Jeremy Davis.
Apr 21
Meetings led by Captain Westwood. The evening meeting was held at the United Reform Church in Clover Street as a united churches meeting. Songsters, Band and Timbrels took part in the meeting and Captain Westwood gave the sermon.
Apr 27
Meeting at Mote Park Leisure Centre, Maidstone celebrating the inauguration of the new London South East Division. Timbrels took part in the meeting.
Apr 28
Divisional Youth Councils followed by Chatham Youth Chorus taking part in a programme at Ordnance Street Evangelical Church.
May 4/5
Band at Winton for the weekend. Final visiting section at the Corps of Major’s Steve and Jean Russell.
May 11
Morning meeting led by new D. C. Maj. & Mrs. Keith Burridge. Rosemary Steadman-Allen commissioned as Y. P. Band Leader, Beverly Hudson as Y. P. Band Sergeant and Stephen Lenton as Assist. Y. P. Band Leader.
May 16
Ascension Day meeting at Chatham.
Jun 1
Band played for the lunchtime in the Cathedral as part of the Dickens Festival. Timbrels also took part in the sort festival.
Jun 2
Meetings led by Commissioner and Mrs Harry Read.
Jun 5
Songsters took part in festival at St. Matthews’ Church, Borstal.
Jun 9
Band led the meetings at Regent Hall for the day. Captain led the three meetings and the Band led the Open Airs in Regent Street and Oxford Street. A very fulfilling day for all of those who took part.
Jun 14/15
Performances of Corps Musical “The Kingdom Come” words written by our Commanding Officer Captain Malcolm Westwood. Both with full congregations who enjoyed the programmes and gained much blessing.
Jun 23
Special guest for the day was Ray Allen, former principal trumpet player with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Jun 23/30
Annual Crematorium Services.
Jul 6
Youth Chorus led a festival at Caterham Corps.
Jul 7
Meetings led by Captain and Mrs Paul Brine, as this is the Young People’s Anniversary. Afternoon meeting was led by Ray Maycock and was based around the theme of a time machine and important times within the Bible.
Jul 14
Meetings led by Captain and Mrs Westwood. Prayer time in the morning meeting was led by Paul and Ruth Woodhouse.
Jul 28
Meetings led by Captain and Mrs Westwood and during the morning meeting Lucy Elizabeth was dedicated.
Sep 12
A new venture, a great time for the Corps, the very first indoor open air meeting was held at Wayfield Primary School. The Band, Songsters and Timbrels all took part and it was a very enjoyable evening.
Sep 14
Barbeque Breakfast.
Youth Aflame – Gospel Choir gave a concert at the Corps. Good crowd with lively music.
Sep 15
The morning meeting was led by Major and Mrs Noel Baker and Baby Gareth Pennington was dedicated.
Sep 21
The Songsters took part in the Retirement Salute to Major and Mrs Alfred Gurr, held at Margate Citadel. Margate Band also took part and friends and family of the Major and his Wife.
Sep 22
Harvest conducted by Lt. Col. John Major
Sep 29
Meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood. The morning meeting was opened with prayer by Nigel and Sarah Day. Audrey Holder was appointed as the Home League Treasurer and Graham Hatton and Rachel Warley took part in the meeting by giving their testimony.
Oct 6
The Band led a motorcade today at 3 Kent Corps. They led the meetings at Chartham, Deal and then Dover a very busy day with open-airs, testimonies and many fulfilling moments throughout the day.
Oct 13
The meetings this weekend were led by Colonel and Mrs John Flett and this weekend was the Home League weekend. The Home League Singers and many of their members took part in all of the meetings throughout the day.
Oct 16
Songsters took part in “One World Week” Service at United Reform Church, Clover Street, with the Christchurch Mission Project and Rev. Walter Robbins from Isle of Grain.
Oct 20
Songs of praise afternoon held at the United Reform Church in Clover Street, Chatham. The Band and Songsters took part in the afternoon. The afternoon was held for celebrations for Nelson weekend but retiring collections were made and donated to the First Step Drop in Centre and the Medway Soup Run. The afternoon was very interesting with many people from different Churches taking part. Meetings at the Hall today were led by Colonel and Mrs Gordon Bevan (R).
Oct 26
Visit of Chalk Farm Band with Richard & Sharon Phillips for Fund-Raising festival to raise money for delegates to South Africa Music School.
Oct 27
The meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood. The morning meeting was opened by Verna and Murray Smith. It was a very exciting day for the Corps and the Young People at Chatham as Katrina Watt was enrolled as a senior soldier in the evening meeting. It was a very moving service.
Nov 2
The Youth Chorus held a programme at the Hall filled with praise. The event was very well supported and a very enjoyable evening.
Nov 3
The meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood. Richard and Sharon Phillips opened the meeting. Today was a very special service as it was Commitment Sunday. It gave everyone the chance to look at their commitments and to renew their covenant with the Lord.
Nov 16
S. A. Southern Congress at Wembley – Youth Chorus taking part.
Nov 23
The meetings were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood and the community meeting was led by Adrian Horwood. The Staff Songsters were visiting Leeds West Hunslett today.
Dec 1
Celebration of Corps 123rd Anniversary. Today’s morning meeting was very special to the Corps as we all witnessed the enrolment are Rachel Horwood as a Senior Soldier. In the evening the meeting was led by Kate Boughton and was arranged especially for the Corps Anniversary. It was based around the theme of connections. It was nice to see a number of old faces who were invited to the meeting.
Dec 7/8
Carol Concerts at the Central Theatre. They went really well and were very enjoyable for all who attended or took part.
Dec 22
Corps Carol Service.
Dec 25
Christmas Morning meeting followed by volunteer bandsmen visit to Hospice. The usual Christmas Day meals and entertainment for Old and Lonely Folks was not held at Chatham but went to join in with the Strood Corps.
1997
Jan 17
Corps Soldiers Meeting
Jan 24/26
Youth group went to Bournemouth for a weekend retreat. Captain Westwood led the weekend and a great time was had by all.
Feb 1
Annual Red Shield Appeal commenced
Feb 2
Introduction of ‘Pastoral Carers’ to the Corps. Corps “Mission Statement” accepted by the Corps “To Bring Christ to People and People to Christ”
Feb 9
Meetings today were led by Colonel and Mrs E Cotterill.
Feb 16
Meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood and David and Jane Jenkins opened the morning meeting. The service was very special as it saw the enrolment of Emma Davis as a Junior Soldier.
Feb 23
Meetings were led by Major Gordon Kent from Territorial Headquarters. Today we were blessed with the news of the arrival of Rebecca Jane, Pauline and David Stevens’ granddaughter.
Mar 1
Fund raising programme was held at the Villa Ad Astra in Hassocks in Sussex. The evening was full of surprises and the Band, Songsters and Timbrels all took part.
Mar 2
Rachel Horwood enrolled as a Bandsman Rachel Warley commissioned Assistant Band Secretary
Mar 9
The Corps Y P Annual and Mother’s Day was led today by Captain Paula Rampton.
Mar 15
An International Choral Spectacular was held in Rochester Cathedral. The evening was directed by Bandmaster Richard Phillips and was led by the Commissioner Earle Maxwell and Mrs Commissioner Wilma Maxwell, Chief of Staff. Over 300 people attended. Invitations were extended to competent musicians from many parts of the Army World as well as local choral societies. Rehearsals were held during the day culminating in an exciting evening of wonderful music.
Mar 16
Our meetings today were conducted by the Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Earle Maxwell, and Mrs Commissioner Wilma Maxwell. Lots of visitors were greeted at the Corps. During the meetings Commissioner Wilma Maxwell led the Self- Denial Missionary Altar Service and she also explained and described about some of the circumstances that she had seen in other countries that the money would benefit. Carolynn Maycock and Paul Woodhouse gave their testimonies during the evening meeting.
Mar 23
Band at Palm Sunday United Churches procession at Snodland as usual. Meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood. Stephen Lenton was commissioned as the new Assistant Young People’s Band Leader. During the day a number of people took part in the meeting. Christine Lockwood gave her testimony. Alison Gray also give her testimony and Rosemary Steadman-Allen played the flugal horn solo.
Mar 28
Good Friday’s meetings were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood. Lisa Davis was the guest soloist for the weekend. Everyone gathered for a meeting in the Pentagon with other local churches within the town. This year led by Rev. John Oldfield of the Medway Family Church with over 400 people attending, and their ‘Worship Group’ taking part.
Mar 30
Meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood and Lisa Davis was the guest soloist. We were all blessed to hear of the birth of Jessica Megan Boughton who was born this week. The newest member of the Corps.
Apr 5
A retirement Service, led by Divisional Commander Lt. Colonel Keith Burridge, was held at the Corps today for Majors James and Alma Brown. It was a very enjoyable evening. The Band and Songsters took part and there were many people who came to wish them best wishes. A reunion of family and many old friends from far and wide preceded the presentation of certificates.
Apr 6
Meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood and the meeting was opened by Ray and Irene Maycock.
Apr 7
The Band and ‘Parable’ from Christchurch took part again in the Radio Kent Lent Course Finale in Rochester Cathedral. The DC was interviewed as one of the course speakers.
Apr 13
The meeting in the morning was the Junior Soldiers Day of Renewal which was led by Ray Maycock, Samantha Wood and Alison Gray. Every Junior Soldier took part and the theme or the meeting was Temptation.
The evening meeting was held at the United Reform Church at Clover Street for a combined service with members of St John’s Church and the United Reform Church. Again well attended, as last year, and included Band, Songsters, YP Band and YP Singing Company as well as representatives from the other participating churches. A long programme, 2 hrs 40 mins, but seemed appreciated by the church-folk.
Apr 20
Meetings today were led by Captain and Mrs Westwood and the meeting was opened by Peter and Dawn, Lewis and Matthew Smith. Kirstey Brazil was presented with her Crest award.
Apr 26/27
The Band visited Portsmouth Corps this weekend, the final weekend away with Chatham Band for Bandmaster Richard Phillips, who is transferring to Enfield later in the year. The meetings were led by Major Brown and everyone who attended thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
Apr 28
There was a Church Growth meeting held at the Hall tonight. It was a crucial meeting as it was about making plans about the programme of the Corps for its future. Goals were also set.
May 7
New £5,000 Sound System being installed in the Senior Hall with the control console in the Gallery
May 8
Accension Day meeting was led at the Corps today by Captain Westwood. The Band at Songsters all took part and played their part and the evening included the commissioning of Ray Maycock as Bandmaster. The evening also included the commissioning of Nigel and Margaret Day as Community Officers for the Corps.
May 10/11
This weekend we welcomed the visit of the Band from Winton. It was a very enjoyable weekend with a programme both on Saturday night and all day Sunday. Second half of an exchange weekend with Chatham Band. Good meetings with the Devotional Meetings led by Major Steve Russell.
May 17/18
The Songster brigade visited Willenhall., West Midlands
May 24
This weekend saw the Bandmasters and Songster Leaders festival being held at the Royal Albert Hall. Taking part in the meetings were our own Songsters who took their part in the chorus. The International Staff Songsters, International Staff Band and the London, Ontario, Band from Canada.
May 25
Dedication of Jessica Megan Boughton, daughter of Chris & Kate Boughton, conducted by Lieutenant Iain and Alison Hudson.
May 31
A very busy and enjoyable weekend for all involved in Chatham Corps. On Saturday lunchtime the Band and Timbrels took part in a service at the Rochester Cathedral as part of the Dickens “Songs of Praise” Festival.. Again they played for about 20 minutes beforehand with the Chatham Timbrels giving a display just before the meeting commenced. The band accompanied the singing interspersed with some fine testimonies by people from all over Kent, and played out at the finale. A well worthwhile event that Bandmaster Ray Maycock wants to extend next year.
May 31/Jun 1
Saturday night brought the visit of the London, Ontario, Band to the Corps as part of the tour of the United Kingdom. The night was very lively and crowds came from all over the country to see the Band.
Sunday meetings this weekend were led by the London, Ontario, Band, from Canada. A very interesting and enjoyable weekend for all those who attended. Following the meeting many of the Canadians visited the finale and fireworks of the Dickens Festival.
Jun 15
Bandsmens and Songsters Divisional Councils at Tunbridge Wells. Our Songsters took part in the morning session. Councils led by Trevor & Margaret Davis
Jun 21
Y. P. Outing to Bembom’s at Margate. Free Tickets provided by Rotary
Jun 22
Crematorium services were led today by the Band and Songsters. Unfortunately due to very bad weather the service had to be held within the chapel.
Jun 28
Mrs. Brigadier Olive Straughan celebrated her 90th Birthday with a party at C. S. M.’s/Songster Leader’s house (daughter/son-in-law).
Jun 29
Service was held at the crematorium to remember people’s loved ones. Both the Songsters and Band took part.
Services today at the Corps were led by Lt. Colonel and Mrs E Coupe.
Jul 5
Party of Bandsmen and Senior Timbrels took part in a Garden Party in aid of Hythe Corps organised by Lieutenants Mike and Elizabeth Lloyd (CO’s).
Jul 6
Dedication of Rachel and Rebecca Abbott.
Jul 12
Car Treasure Hunt and B B Q organised by CYO Tracy Wood.
Jul 13
A special day today for all the Young People in the Corps as it was the Y P Anniversary. Our meetings today were led by Major Gillian Heeley from Divisional Headquarters. The meetings were very lively and involved every Junior Soldier from the Corps. Members from the Sunday School also took their part in plays in the afternoon meeting. The theme of the day was who do you think you are?
Jul 19
Y. P. Hall in use by Kent Disabled Society
Aug 6
Divisional Candidates Farewell at Chatham
Sep 6
Youth Chorus programme at Plumstead and Funeral Services of Diana Princess of Wales
Sep 13
Barbeque Breakfast at 1 Waters Place C. S. M.’s/Songster.Ldr’s
Sep 21
Harvest weekend meetings led by Lt. Col. Linda Bond (IHQ)
Oct 4
Programme in aid of Demelza Hospice by Young People’s Band and King’s School Choir Rochester.
Oct 15
AGM of Churches Together in Medway held in SA Hall. Youth Chorus sang during the proceedings
Oct 19/20
Home League weekend meetings were led by Major Betty Wall. The theme of pencil was a sharp reminder of the love which runs through our life. Monday afternoon concluded the weekend with a Home League rally.
Oct 25/26
Weekend meetings were led by Leeds West Hunslett Band. Having presented varied and well structured programmes the weekend concluded with a request for the vocal solo, “Love Changes Everything”, sung by Les Chambers.
Nov 2
Despite half term which resulted in many Corps folk being away an inspiring weekend was scheduled with Corps folk invited to renew their commitment to the “Growth Programme”.
Nov 9
This was the wettest Remembrance Sunday remembered at the Corps. The Band as usual accompanied the mayor to the Cenotaph through a storm which resulted in the rims of Bandswomen’s hats being filled to overflowing.
Nov 16
Meetings led by Major & Mrs Ivan Croucher.
Nov 20
Youth Chorus took part in evening of music at Rochester Girls Grammar School.
Nov 22
Senior Band gave a festival at Maidenhead
Nov 23
Corps 124th Anniversary. Enrolment of two adherents who linked up following the Wayfield, In-door Open Air, meeting the previous year.
Nov 29/30
Songsters away at Rock ferry, Birkenhead. Sunday morning meeting based around the theme song of “This Little Light of Mine”. Brigade included amongst its personnel Rachel Warley on her first away weekend.
Dec 6/7
35TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR Central Theatre Carol Concerts were as usual a sell out despite the ticket price increase from £1.50 to £2. A total of £3,200 was raised and distributed to The Carers Relief Service and Cerebral Palsy Care. A varied musical programme of the expected high standard was offered. The highlight being an Alpine Horn solo, Bandmaster Ray Maycock in suitable dress, with Euphonium mountain echo.
Dec 15/ 3
Programme by band at Napier Primary School where Songster Carolynn Maycock is music teacher.
Mayors Waits led by the last ever mayor of the City of Rochester upon Medway. Under Deputy Bandmaster Jeremy Davis Mayor Linda Robson produced a memorable vocal solo at three of the venues.
Dec 21
Corps Carol Service in citadel again organised and led by Songster Leader Verna Smith, a good crowd attended as usual. The YP. Corps held their usual Christmas Sunday School and many corps folk attended this fun event.
Dec 14/21
Due to Sunday Shop opening it was decided to play carols in the High Street, where the people are, instead of around the estates.
Dec 25
Christmas Day 10.30am. meeting held with no other activity.
Dec 28
Meeting included the dedication of Helen Rosemary Page by Major Laina Geleit.
1998
Jan 8
First Meetings of the House Groups at the Hall
Jan 9
First meeting of “Mummy & Me” started at hall and led by Verna Smith
Jan 17
Corps was enriched and entertained by the visit of Cambridge Citadel Songster brigade for the Sunday night. Particularly of note, in addition to many excellent musical items was the presentation of Mr Dibble who felt called to be a missionary but due to unsuitability decided to become a nun!
Jan 23-25
Youth of the Corps with their Leader C Y S Tracy Wood returned from their annual retreat to Bournemouth feeling refreshed and challenged.
Feb 1
The “Mummy and Me” group was recognised at the Corps. Leadership is by Songster Leader Verna Smith supported by Olive Lockwood and Mrs Major Brown. The complementary “Teeny Weeny Tots” group now also uses the hall facilities for its meetings.
Feb 22
Sunday meetings were under the leadership of Major and Mrs Bill Heeley, Divisional Director for Programme, London South East.
Feb 28
The Songsters presented a return programme at Cambridge. The Songsters were introduced on an individual basis by their full time occupation. Family items included Irene and Carolynn Maycock, Chris and Kate Boughton, Carolynn and Andrew Maycock. On the following day the Songsters also conducted Sunday meetings at Chatham.
Mar 7
“Souper” Social for the Soup Run. Organised by Ray Maycock for Corps Folk to meet those involved with the Soup Run.
Mar 8
The band led the morning meeting. The evening meeting comprised the annual town centre Churches meeting. The two and a half hour service was focused around the Corps Senior musical sections. The congregation apparently unwilling to leave and wanting for more.
Mar 21
Y P Annual combined with Mother’s Day celebrations were led by the young people and the Y P workers. In the morning meeting the Young People gave their views on “My Mum”. In the afternoon prizes were given to the various cradle role, primary and junior members whilst flowers were distributed to all mothers present.
Apr 1
Band took part in Divisional Soldiers Rally at Tunbridge Wells
Apr 4
Songsters visited Hythe Corps for Sat. Evening.
Apr 5
Usual Palm Sunday united churches procession around the village of Snodland. Band leading.
Apr 10 Good Friday Meetings at the hall. United Churches Procession through the High Street and Pentagon Service
Apr 10-12
Following the Good Friday morning meeting, which included Passion Choral by the Senior Band the Corps marched to join other town centre churches for the United Service in the Pentagon. Easter Sunday meetings included a testimony by Frankie Kember who had recently been re-enrolled after a period of lapsed soldiership.
Apr 19
Beth Hatton was dedicated to God by Major Malcolm Westwood who had been promoted to the rank during that week.
Apr 25
Youth Chorus (Leader Carolynn Maycock) gave a programme at Thornton Heath for Home League Weekend.
May16/17
Band away to LEEDS WEST HUNSLET for weekend.
The Corps made first use of this newly acquired 17 seater minibus. Including many features to help the older and less mobile gain access to our meetings and facilities. Thanks was given to all who had made financial support to this £27,000 plus project.
May 20
Divisional Meeting at Chatham
May 24
Band leading the singing “Dunkirk Little Ships Service” at Chatham Maritime.
May 30
The Band supported the annual Songs of Praise, in Rochester Cathedral as part of the Dickensian weekend celebration. A retiring collection was taken for Corps community work.
Jun 2
House groups met together at Oak Hall, Oxford, for an evening of relaxation and fellowship. Fifty attended.
Jun 5
Visit of VLAARDINGEN BAND – short notice visit as a result of another corps being unable to accomodate, hence the meeting was not well attended, but the programme was good.
Jun 6
Y. P. Outing to “The Strand” Gillingham, a first time experiment, the whole pool area being reserved and a Barbeque organised, which proved a great success.
Jun 7
Band played at Fort Horsted Nursing Home as a result of special request.
Jun 13
Band Annual Cricket Match at Tunbridge Wells.
Gillingham and Chatham Singing Companies combined to present a varied festival at Gillingham.
Jun 14
Y P Anniversary meetings included Junior Soldiers Day of Renewal.
Jun 20
Timbrels took part in Maidstone Corps Summer Spectacular at Aylesford Priory. Also Chatham 5 a side Football Team who reached the final against Sutton. Lost on Penalties.
Jun 21
Morning meeting included the dedication of Matthew Nathan Phillips, son of Graham and Joy Phillips, the leaders of our now well established Cub pack. The ceremony was conducted by Captain and Mrs R Pears. Details were also given of the very successful, “Auction of Talents”, evening organised by Deputy Bandmaster Jeremy and Lisa Davis who on the previous Friday evening raised over £1,300 for Corps funds.
Several Y. P. Workers attended a “Safe & Sound” course held at Chatham. The law about care of Children.
Jun 21/28
The Songsters and Senior Band supported at the annual crematorium Remembrance Services. At the request of the crematorium Superintendent Esther Crump, who is soon to retire, the Songsters sang, “You’re Not Alone”, which she had found supportive at the time of a personal grief for herself.
Jul 4/5
Following the visit of Chatham Songsters to Rock Ferry in November 1997 the return visit occurred during this weekend. Opening the weekend with, “How Excellent is thy Name”, the Songsters provided a full weekend’s activities, including the now unusual sight of an open air on the streets of Chatham. This included the arrival of an ambulance at the open air after the collapse of somebody nearby. During the Saturday festival a member of the congregation collapsed and an ambulance was called. It appears whenever Rock Ferry sing..! Musical memories included Euphonium solo, with Songster pieces, “Psalm of Thanks”, and, “Let us go in Peace”.
Jul 11/12
Band party of 14 conducting meetings at PLYMOUTH CONGRESS HALL.
Jul 25
Several Bandsmen and Songsters attend Territorial School of Music
Aug 1
Several of our youngsters at Divisional School of Music.
Sep 19/20
Harvest supper held at the Hall on Saturday. With the usual flower arranger, Verna Smith, on holiday, the decoration of the fall was taken on by Ruth Woodhouse assisted by Irene Maycock.
Sep 27
Holiness meeting was given over to a B P sections parade. Included was the commissioning of Graham Phillips as Cub Scouter, Warrenting of Robert Christie as his assistant and recognised the service given, on his standing down from the position of Assistant Scout Master, of Alan Woodhouse.
Oct 3
Youth Chorus taking part in Youth Councils Festival
Oct 4
Divisional Youth Councils at Central Theatre Chatham.
Oct 11/12
Home League meetings formed the weekend’s programme, leading in to the rally on the Monday afternoon. This was the first meeting without the Home League singers following the transfer of their Leader, Pam Adams, to Worthing. Meetings leaders were Colonel and Mrs Burridge (D C). The rally benefiting from the thoughts of Mrs Burridge and vocal solos by Ron Symonds.
Nov 7
Youth Chorus programme at HORSHAM (CO’s Mike & Liz Lloyd)
Nov 8th
Remembrance Day Parade Band leading as usual.
Nov 14
Joint Programme with Band