New Chairman for WEBF
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Geraint Richards as our new Chairman. He succeeds Leonard Adams, who has stood down after ten years in the post. In recognising the commitment and support Leonard gave to the Festival during his term the Festival has elected him a Life Member.
Geraint has a unique connection to the Festival as his Great Grandfather, F J P Richards, was the prime mover in the founding of the Festival in 1912. He recalled, “Going to the Bank with 44 sovereigns in my pocket, each sovereign put up by committee and friends to ensure the Prize Money”. One of many long serving officials, he remained involved as Secretary and Promoter until his death in 1961. The first Festival was held in the grounds of Peniel on the outskirts of Bugle, a house which had been built by the Richards family and continued there until 1965.
In his position of Head Forester for the Duchy of Cornwall Geraint is involved in projects nationwide for HRH The Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, who is Patron of The West of England Bandsmen’s Festival and whose Great Uncle presented the unique Royal Trophy to the Festival in 1913.
Geraint’s five children are all musical, continuing the Family’s brass band tradition and appearing at the Festival in the Youth Section, his son Tremayne is at present a member of the St Austell Youth Band.
He is looking forward to taking up his appointment as Chairman at this year’s contest on Saturday 17th June.
Image Credit: Jason Ingram
