Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass Band

Clive Cunliffe has stepped down as President after "six years I think" in the role.

Clive has had to work pretty hard during this time as his years in the chair have been some of the most difficult the band has experienced. Clive did some very fine work holding the band together during the dark days of 2006 prior to Dave Bremner's appointment as conductor. The band and supporters should be thankful that Clive was there, otherwise Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass could easily have ceased to exist.

We should also thank Clive for his excellent guidance during the recruitment process which resulted in Dave Bremner being offered the MD's job. Once Dave took over the the band rose from the ashes to become 'B' Grade champions. The band's reinvention can be attributed directly to Dave's expert coaching and enthusiasm. Great choice Clive and team!

Clive has also worked with the committee to improve the band's precarious financial position. We are now able to pay the power bill each month without any crossing of fingers. Next winter we may even be allowed to turn the heater on during practice (just joking here - Dave has often commented that the band room is "like Jamaica" during winter as the heater gets a pretty good workout).

Like the old curse, Clive has certainly lived through some "interesting times". Now the band is no longer in danger of imminent implosion it is safe for him to retire and while we are all excited at the prospect of having Mike Sander as President we will miss Clive's understated leadership style and dry humour.

Clive is leaving the band in good heart and with an exciting future ahead. Thanks Clive for the work you've done during your time as President. We have left the easy chair in "Clive's Corner" hoping that we will continue to see you there listening to the band play or having a beer with us after practice.