IN A little more than three months a corps of drums has been founded for Colwyn Bay.

The initiative was launched last November by Paul Jones, aged 52, who served as a drum major in the Royal Welch Fusiliers for 23 years.

North Wales Pioneer: Colwyn Bay Corps of DrumsColwyn Bay Corps of Drums

Since the launch Paul has attracted 26 members and raised sufficient funds to buy drums, equipment and uniforms for the band. The proposal was publicised in the Pioneer at its launch. Paul, who now works as a Welsh government traffic officer, said: “After attending numerous Remembrance parades, I came to the conclusion there is an excellent opportunity to produce something the local community can be proud of. It would perform at any number of formal events in addition to the Remembrance parade.

Paul said: “We have raised around £8,500 including with a £5,000 grant from the Colwyn Bay town council, a donation of £!,000 from the local Royal British legion, £500 from the military preparation college, £500 from the Royal Marines Association and £405 from the New life revival church.

North Wales Pioneer: Colwyn Bay Corps of DrumsColwyn Bay Corps of Drums

“We have also raised around £1,100 from our Gofundme page from veterans and local community. We have recruited three former Royal Welch Fusilier Drum Majors as well as some very experienced Veterans on board. We are still looking to recruit more members. Musical experience is not essential and members are free to join us from age 16 and above. Anyone who would like to join can contact us on the Colwyn Bay Corps of Drums Facebook page or email: colwynbaycorpsofdrums@gmail.com."