Eynsford Concert Band first visited Malta in 1986, visiting for the 6th time in April 2024. Over the years, the band has formed a close relationship with the Imperial Band Mellieha, including involvement in the organisation of the Mellieha International Music Festival. We were therefore thrilled that, over the weekend 10th-14th September 2026, members of the Imperial Band Club and their families were finally able to visit Eynsford for the first time.
The highlight of their visit was a memorable concert at the historic Lullingstone Castle in Kent. During this unique occasion, The High Commissioner of Malta to the UK – His Excellency Professor Stephen Montefort and Chair of Sevenoaks District Council – Councillor Margot McArthur – attended an official signing of a twinning agreement between the two bands.
The agreement marks the Bond of Friendship that has existing between the two bands for over 40 years and confirms their shared commitment to continue the advancement of music and preservation of their respective musical heritages and traditions.
Other highlights of the weekend included a joint rehearsal and workshop, providing the opportunity for members of both bands to reunite, play together and prepare for the concert at Lullingstone Castle the following day. This was followed by a well deserved get together in the pub across the road, further strengthening the ‘bond of friendship’ between the two bands.
On the Monday, we were able to host our guests for specially arranged visit London. The day included privileged back-stage access to witness Guard Mount and a performance on the parade ground at Wellington Baracks. A visit to the Guards Chapel and photo opportunity with the Scots Guards was then followed by lunch in the Sergeants Mess. A walk across London to Regents Hall in Oxford Street allowed us to watch a rehearsal and meet members of the band of the Grenadier Guards before a final walk down to Piccadilly to the Maltese High Commission where His Excellency Professor Stephen Montefortfort kindly hosted reception to conclude a fantastic day out for all of those who attended.
We can’t thank the Imperial Band Club enough for making the trip to Eynsford and joining us for our special concert together. We hope that they had a great time and will come again soon.
Specific thanks go to:
- The High Commissioner of Malta to the UK – His Excellency Professor Stephen Montefort
- Chair of Sevenoaks District Council – Councillor Margot McArthur
- Leader of Sevenoaks District Council – Councillor Kevin Maskell
- Mayor of Sevenoaks Town – Councillor Victoria Granville
- Chair of Sevenoaks District Arts Council – Alan Pete
- President of the Imperial Band Club – Josef Borg
- Director of Music of the Imperial Band Club – Mr Tony Borg
and not forgetting:
- Director of Music for Eynsford Concert Band – Mike Smith
- Guest Conductor – Colin Palmer
- Guest Compére – Andy Barclay
The twining agreement is a recognition of the 40 year relationship between the two bands and our commitment to continue to visit, collaborate and make music together.
We look forward to visiting Mellieha again soon!
