04/06/2026
Our next volunteer story is Vice Principal, Mel's...
One of Mel's hobbies, music, involves her volunteering as committee member (secretary) for a local community band. The band rehearse weekly, perform between 6 and 8 concerts a year and raise funds both to keep the band going and for worthy causes.
As a founder member of the band, Mel has been part of the band for 31 years. The band has military roots and regularly raise money for SSAFA and the RAF Association who provide support to ex service personnel. Through regular and massed band concerts the band have raised over £30,000 for SSAFA alone. The RAFA concert on Battle of Britain weekend has been an annual event since our inception raising funds specifically for RAFA Wings Appeal. Other charities we have supported include St Ives Dementia Friends, Mind, Bar Hill Church, Alzheimer’s Research.
Mel is also a Trustee for a local venue called Hemingford Peace Memorial Field. Within this main Charity there are multiple sports clubs all run by volunteers who provide sports and community facilities for the local community. There are clubs for football, cricket, bowls, squash, tennis, a gym, bar and social spaces. In 1944 the land was gifted to the two villages as a tribute to all those who served their country with intention it would provide a permanent venue available for the benefit of residents. Over the time Mel has been involved she has been treasurer, secretary, chair and regular volunteer at numerous events. Also taking her turn behind the bar and running the annual sports day and classic car events. It is only through the number of volunteers giving their time and expertise for free that venues like this can continue to grow and offer opportunities for everyone to take part in something.