HR Fire’s most famous customer is without doubt the Brighouse & Rastrick Brass Band. We have been supplying and maintaining fire extinguishers and alarm systems for many years and are proud to be Patrons of this renowned organisation.
Brass bands have a rich history, and among the many renowned ensembles, the B&R stands out as a true icon in the world of brass music. Formed in Brighouse in 1881, the B&R has consistently demonstrated unparalleled musical prowess, winning numerous awards and accolades. This included the World Championship when it was introduced in 1968 and retained the title the following year. Dozens of other national and international trophy successes have followed, including 10 times National Champion Band of Great Britain winners, BBC Band of the Year and Champion Band of Europe.
A famous and unique success came the band’s way in 1977 when for nine weeks they were at No.2 in the British ‘pop’ charts with their recording of ‘The Floral Dance’, deprived of the number one spot only by Paul McCartney, but still achieving sales of over a million.
Over recent years the Band has been engaged in very successful music collaborations outside the brass band tradition. High profile appearances, on live-television at the BBC ‘Folk Music Awards’ with The Unthanks folk group is a prime example.
In addition to competition work, up to thirty concerts are performed each year at venues across the UK, ranging from small village halls to the major concert venues, most of which are organised in aid of local or national charities.
At B&R everyone is a volunteer, from players through to support staff. You can therefore imagine how delighted the band were on November 14th, 2023, when it was announced that they were to receive the Kings Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS). Equivalent to an MBE, KAVS is the highest award given to local voluntary groups.
