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Grand Bandstanding

By Robin Tulley

Reverse the carousel, go back in time
When the Brighton Bandstand was in its prime,
Betwixt a bustling promenade and a glittering sea,
And horse drawn carriages, conveying the gentry.
Philip Lockwood produced his grand design in 1883,
Which was constructed in 1884 for all to see?
Originally for ladies to shelter from the sun
It soon hosted Bands to the delight of everyone.
Overlooking the West Pier, the Metropole behind,
The band stand gave pleasure to all those inclined,
Its Victorian elegance stood out from the rest,
In 1910 Brighton boasted eight others, but this was the best.
Dickens would stroll from the Bedford where often he stayed,
And seek solace in the music as the bandsmen played,
How many Alfred’s and Mabel’s had first courted there?
In the glow of the streetlamps and romance in the air.
History passed by, through World Wars one and two,
The bands played on, and its popularity grew.
But In the mid 60s sadly its demise had begun,
It was no longer appreciated, demolish it said some!
Neglected, The Bandstand began to rust and decay
Shunned by successive councils, to the residents dismay.
But, The Brighton Bandstand Campaign had other ideas
They persistently lobbied their councillor peers,
With a pledge from the Council that funding was in place,
The Grade II listed Bandstand was restored at great pace.
Two years later, on a July night, people sat excitedly,
An air of expectancy gripped the crowd by the sea,
The band struck up and everyone’s spirits soared,
Our wonderful ‘Birdcage’ was now beautifully restored.