Description

The purpose of the Band is to promote links between the community and Cleveland Police and displaying the professionalism of the Force through the excellence of music.

Cleveland Police grew from a number of separate police forces following amalgamations in the 1970’s. Originally named Teesside for a number of years, in 1964 sections from North Yorkshire Police, Durham Police and Teesside were joined to become Cleveland Constabulary.

The history of Middlesbrough Police goes even further back but the story of the Cleveland Police Band starts in the 1960s. A period musically of great change, with the effect of numerous styles of American music to influence as well as the famous Merseybeat and the birth of the Beatles. The development of the musical and the huge film industry desperate to succeed with their Oscar nominations relied heavily on the use of music as main title and background support.

Historically, in the North East of England, the brass band has progressed, through the likes of the mining communities and Salvation Army, for perhaps the last one hundred and fifty years. In so doing it has planted a deep appreciation within the public. The popularity in radio and television has also gone a long way to bring brass band music into the public domain.

However the actual live performance of music is still regarded as a spectacle and source of entertainment that should continue. To be able to give public performances within the region is therefore, clearly an important feature of the band. Furthermore, a number of the performances are specific to other organisations, (The British Legion for example) and our support in this area goes a long way in extending the traditions of the country. Our involvement with many charities both local and national, are also well received.

To quote from one of the documents at the time, "In September 1970, the Police Committee Cleveland Constabulary sanctioned the formation of a Police Band"

Description

Fully restored to its Victorian splendour, Ropner Park is a real delight at any time of year. You can stroll by the lakeside or along tree-lined avenues and admire the beautiful floral displays. There’s a fabulous play area, tennis courts, bowls club and large grassed areas for games and picnics.

The splendid pavilion houses a café and toilets. The café is run by the Friends of Ropner Park, who also organise a programme of concerts on the bandstand and run other events in the park. The Friends have made a big contribution to the restoration and on-going success of the park, and they welcome new members.

The Ropner Park Cafe is managed by Friends of Ropner Park and is subject to opening times changing at short notice.

Park opening hours shown are for the warmer seasons: The park will close at 5pm between 21st October and 21st March Each year.

Ropner Park,

Stockton-on-Tees,

County Durham,

England,

TS18 4EF.