Rushen Silver Band has held a special service 70 years since assuming that name at Fleshwick Beach.

The band was formed in the 1930s by residents in the small hamlet of Surby, near Port Erin.

When it changed to an all brass format in 1944 it became Surby Silver Band.

The promise of money prompted a further name change when it came to their attention in 1949 that Port St Mary Commissioners had money to help to set up a local band, but it would have to change its name to the Rushen Silver Band. The band did this and discovered that the sum available was a mere £19 6s 4p!

Good Friday was a busy day in the band’s calendar. The band would lead a march from the middle of Port Erin to Fleshwick (up a steep hill) on the coast where an open air service would take place.

After the service the locals would roll their hard boiled eggs down the steep banks. 

The service - which has not been held for decades - was resurrected on Good Friday this year.

It included the Manx Fisherman’s Evening Hymn and Ellan Vannin. After the service, the band played for a short time.

Tom Sinden, band chairman, said: ’It was great that so many people came along to join us. We would like to thank Chris Bellfield for leading the service, the members of Ballafesson Chapel for their hospitality, and to Daniel Crompton from The Play Station for providing the minibus transport.’