The band welcomed Owen Farr to rehearsal prior to the Pre Contest Festival.
These pictures, courtesy of former bandsman Stuart Garman, provide a record the evening.
Bandmaster Iain Parkhouse was leading the band as Jonathan Corry was due to leave for the USA later that week, although he did find time to pop to share a few words with Owen.
If you had ever wondered what the view is like from the back of the band, then this is it.