A VETERAN from Warrington and his Royal Marines band have been invited to perform at the official D-Day anniversary commemorations taking place in Normandy.
The ceremonies in France will mark the 80th anniversary of the historic Second World War landings in 1944 and will see 23 surviving D-Day veterans appear for the event, along with King Charles and other members of the royal family.
Mark Peers, from Penketh, set up the Royal Marine Association Corps of Drums five years ago, with a goal of taking children of the streets and teaching them not only to play music but the discipline of the marines.
The self-funded band practice every Friday from 7pm to 9pm at Newton-le-Willows Sea Cadets, on Cross Lane.
Mark served in the Royal Marines for 10 years and was a member of the band and following in his footsteps, his son Adam, who also helps run the youth band, is now a marine and member of the band too.
The 66-year-old band master spoke of his pride when the group were invited to perform at the commemorations in Normandy, set to take place this coming weekend.
“There are six of us going in total and we set off on June 3 to Normandy,” Mark said.
“During the trip we are taking the kids down to the beaches and we are going to let them walk up the beach while we explain what happened all those years ago.
“We will also take them to the cemeteries. We are taking part in five different concerts and around five other parades whilst we are there.”
Having been passionate about music from a young age, Mark joined the Warrington field band at just nine years old back in 1966 and spent a decade in it before joining the services.
Speaking on why he first started the band, he said: “We take kids off the street, and we teach them how to read music and play instruments.
“We are self-funded and bought all the uniforms and instruments ourselves.”
Marks son, and teacher of the youth band, Adam, said: “Our aims are to support the local community and armed forces communities at events such as Armed Forces Day, Remembrance Day and local galas.
“We have members who just want to learn and play music and aim to prepare and teach those who may wish for a career in the RMBS.
“Two members have already joined, and another one is on the way. We also look to get veterans involved as a social area where they can come and talk all things music.”
Recruits from the age of 10 and above can join the band with all abilities welcome and all equipment provided, Adam added.
Speaking on the upcoming event, Mark said: “With it being the 80th anniversary of the landings, it is a massive thing for us. I think all the members are all a bit frightened because they are performing in front of royalty - I will be very proud of them all.”
The local band has also set up a fundraising page to raise enough money to purchase new uniforms for all its recruits. If you would like to donate click the link here.
If you would like to get involved or sign up for the band contact Mark at peersdad1@yahoo.co.uk
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