The band had made good progress under Mr. Mantle, and they were pleased to see he had made good progress after his accident. During Mr. Mantle’s stay in hospital, Mr. Emrys Lewis had proved a very capable deputy. The band possessed a fine set of instruments, and had reached a standard equal to anything that had been seen in Fochriw previously. During the interval, the chairman presented Mr. David Hughes, M.E., Cardiff, with a walking stick on behalf of the bands-men, officers and committee, as a token of appreciation of the kindness he has shown in bringing about the purchase of the new instruments. Mr. Hughes responded, and said he was delighted with the playing of the band. Mr. A.H. Wood moved a vote of thanks to all who had assisted, seconded by Mr. J.J. Lewis, secretary.

By 1951 the band had disbanded once again and a call was made in April 1951 for them to reform for the Festival of Britain celebrations which they did and led the procession in July of that year.

The last newspaper report of band activities that I have seen is August 1953

As a child in the 1950’s I can recall the band coming around the streets of Fochriw on a Christmas Day and being told that after its disbandment, the instruments were kept under the New Hall stage.

From its formation in 1886 the band was set up as a competition band and newspaper reports from 1887 to 1904 list the many honours, such as 1sts and 2nds and gold and silver places, that were won by the band at eisteddfodau and other competitions across the length and breadth of Wales.

The following list, which is probably far from complete, shows those honours.

DRUM AND FIFE BAND

On 22 May 1886 the Gelligaer School Board considered an application from the band for a reduction in the price of 5/- charged for the use of the Board School but this could not be entertained since no payment had yet been received.

On 12 June 1886 the drum and Fife Band was allowed to use the Board School for a concert upon the recommendation of the school managers