Mayor honours Dunstable Salvation Army bandmaster for 50 years’ dedicated service
A dedicated Salvation Army bandmaster who has provided the musical backdrop to Dunstable's civic events for half a century, has been honoured with a prestigious award.
Tommy Spratt, 76, bandmaster at The Salvation Army in Dunstable, received the “Mayor's Special Award” in a surprise presentation during the Mayor’s Annual Civic Service last week. The ceremony, was held to celebrate the end of the Mayoral year, with Mayor Cllr Sally Kimondo commending Mr Spratt’s “remarkable dedication and leadership.”
The award citation praised Tommy’s "unwavering commitment to our community," highlighting his pivotal role in providing music for the annual town Tree Lighting Ceremony, the Mayor’s Candlelight Carols, and the St George’s Day Parade.
The honour marks a significant milestone for Tommy, who will celebrate 50 years as bandmaster in June. Having first learned to play a brass instrument as a child at the Dunstable Corps, he served as deputy bandmaster from 1969 before taking on the full leadership role in 1976. Under his baton, the band has travelled across the UK, leading weekends of music festivals and worship.
Tommy said: “I was completely shocked and deeply honoured. I don't do this for awards, but to receive this recognition from the Mayor and the town means the world to me. My name might be on it, but it’s the band who does the work on behalf of the whole church. And on a personal level, I have to thank my family for their patience and encouragement, particularly my wife Wendy – her support is my rock.”
While music is his passion, Tommy’s contribution to Dunstable extends far beyond the bandstand. In addition to his musical leadership, he manages the food store at the Dunstable Salvation Army church, organising weekly food parcels for those in the community who require support.
Jacqueline and Roger Coates, leaders of The Salvation Army in Dunstable, said: "Tommy’s life for 50-plus years has involved the band. We are blessed that he chooses to live out his Christian experience using the gifts God has given him through the ministry and music of the band. This award shows the impact made on the local community to share the good news story of Jesus. We also recognise the support he has given to all previous Corps Officers at Dunstable throughout his tenure.
"This award is a recognition of the whole church membership and their commitment to living their faith in the everyday. Our mission is to be a shining light in the community, a place where people can find a welcome and belonging, supporting those in the community with practical and spiritual help."
In addition to church services every Sunday, The Salvation Army runs a group for over-75s who are living alone or are in circumstances where opportunities for meaningful social interaction are limited, to meet and make friends. They meet on Thursdays between 10.30am and 3pm.
On Wednesdays the church’s community kitchen opens its doors between 7pm and 8.15pm to help the homeless, serving hot meals, providing showers and laundry machines for people to freshen-up. It also helps with a Debt Advice Service.