1940s - The Beginning

The Isle of Sheppey Band was founded in 1946 when a group of St John Ambulance cadets from Sheerness were inspired after seeing another cadet band on parade. Determined to create their own band, they began fundraising with help from family, friends and a GBP45 grant from the St John Commissioner.

The first instruments were purchased from Potters of Charing Cross Lane, London, by cadets Frank Rotherham, Arthur O'Bray and Derek Howard. Drums were difficult to obtain due to post-war restrictions on wood, meaning early rehearsals involved drumsticks and school desks.

The band's first parade took place on 27 April 1946, marching from Beachfields to St Paul's Church in Bluetown before parading through Sheerness High Street.

1950s - Growing Reputation

During the 1950s the band travelled across the region performing in towns including Herne Bay, Harwich, Basildon and Brighton.

In 1952 the band proudly led the St John Day parade to St Paul's Cathedral in London. Another highlight was participation in the 1953 Coronation celebrations for HM Queen Elizabeth II.

1960s - Expansion and New Music

The 1960s saw the band performing regularly at carnivals, community events and St John band competitions. Members joined from other Sheppey divisions including Sheppey Rural and Queenborough.

Instruments improved during this period with rod-tension drums and the addition of valve trumpets, allowing the band to perform more complex music including popular songs from the musicals.

1970s - A Period of Change

Membership dipped during the early 1970s which resulted in fewer public appearances. However, the amalgamation of St John divisions on Sheppey later in the decade revitalised the band.

The band moved to the Maltby Memorial Hall headquarters and adopted the name Isle of Sheppey St John Ambulance Band. Women were also welcomed into the band for the first time.

1980s - Bigger Sound

Membership increased again during the 1980s and new instruments, including glockenspiels, added a brighter sound to the band's music.

In 1986 the band performed a marching display in Paternoster Square in front of an audience estimated at over 3,000 people following the St John Day service at St Paul's Cathedral.

1990s - Carnivals and Celebrations

The band performed at carnivals across Kent including Sheerness, Leysdown, Ashford and Dover, as well as many village fetes.

1996 marked the band's 50th anniversary. The band was led at the time by the late Tony Cole, whose leadership left a lasting impact on many members who continue to play today.

2000s - Growth and International Travel

In 2003 Dean Faulkner became Bandmaster and helped grow membership from 12 members to more than double that number within six months.

The band began appearing regularly in the Lord Mayor's Show in London and also performed at the opening of the Sheppey Crossing in 2006.

The 60th anniversary was celebrated with a reunion and a special trip to perform at Disneyland Paris.

2010s - Memorable Moments

On our way to Menin Gate

The band celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2016 with a visit to Belgium, performing in Ypres and beneath the famous Menin Gate.

Another highlight came in 2018 when the band marched in the National Remembrance Parade in London down The Mall.

Who would have thought the drummers could be on a music video 2019

2020s - A New Chapter

Watch: 2020s band video

The Covid pandemic disrupted band activities in 2020, but members stayed connected and even produced several entertaining YouTube videos.

In 2025 St John Ambulance announced the closure of the Sheppey unit after more than 100 years on the island. Following this decision the band chose to become independent and reformed as The Isle of Sheppey Band.

The Future

2026 marks the 80th anniversary of a band on the Isle of Sheppey.

As a newly independent charity we continue to raise funds for equipment, uniforms and instruments while welcoming new members who wish to become part of the band family.

For nearly eight decades the band has shared music, friendship and community spirit - and we look forward to continuing that tradition for many years to come.