Last orders are being sounded for one of the most popular pub bands in Angus.
The Declaration Band has provided the soundtrack to some of the happiest moments of people’s lives since forming in 2011.
They have played pubs, clubs, the Edinburgh Fringe, functions, weddings and even once performed on the top of a double-decker bus in Arbroath.
The Arbroath-based outfit will now bring the curtain down on almost eight years in the spotlight with a final concert in December which will raise money for good causes.
The band is made up of vocalist Ben Dunn, lead guitarist Scott Holmes, bassist Johnny Gordon, trumpet player Howard Cargill, drummer Shannon Jamieson and Kim Butterworth on saxophone.
Mr Cargill said: “The band formed around the start of 2011 and has been performing in the local area and beyond since then.
“The first performance we gave was in the Anchor Bar in Arbroath and was played in front of a dozen people with the band playing for free.
“Over the years we have practised hard and added more songs and genres to our set, specialising in soul, classic rock and ska.
“We quickly found ourselves in great demand from pubs and clubs around the area and over the last few years have appeared as far afield as the Fringe in Edinburgh.”
Weddings and functions soon became the band’s specialty which has seen them travelling to places as far afield as the Shetland Islands.
This year the band took the decision to step down from the stage after two members of the band announced they were retiring.
Mr Cargill added: “A final gig has been arranged for Saturday December 8 in Coast in Arbroath.
“All proceeds raised from the night will be going to local good causes.
“The band members will be performing free of charge and are grateful to Coast for making the venue available free of charge also.
“The band would like to say a big thanks to everyone who has supported them over the years.”
Arbroath East and Lunan Conservative councillor Derek Wann wished the members of the band well in their retirement.
“I have heard the Declaration Band on many occasions and know Howard very well,” he said.
“The band has been a success for years and they will be missed in the town when they final retire.
“It’s great to see that their final gig will be to raise money for good causes – this shows what a community-spirited band they are.
“I wish them all the best for the last gig.”
Tickets priced at £5 are now available from Carpet Disco, Millgate, Arbroath.
