PASSENGERS on last Sunday’s Fishguard to Rosslare sailing enjoyed some unexpected entertainment.

Responding to an invitation from Stena Line, Goodwick Brass Band played two 45-minute sets from their concert repertoire on the way to Ireland and another on the return trip.

It was an opportunity for the band to promote their name and their musicianship while adding to their fundraising efforts for this year’s visit to the UK National Brass Band Championships in September.

Many people in the audience were keen to show their appreciation with donations, and among those complimenting the band on the quality of their music were visitors from the United States, a touring entertainment group from South Africa and a lively team of jugglers on their way home from a competition in Ireland.

It was long and busy day for the young band but the players returned in the early hours of Monday.

“This was a terrific new experience for us and it was good to get such positive reaction and generous response from the audience,” said Goodwick’s Musical Director Matthew Jenkins.

Band chairman Tony Evans added: “We are really grateful to Stena Line for this opportunity. It was an imaginative and generous way for our friends in this major company to help us in our fundraising.”

Carl Milne, Stena Line’s Port Operations Manager, said: “Through our Irish Sea Ferry operations, Stena Line has a continued interest in all themed events and activities that provide social inclusion, and Goodwick Brass Band consistently provide this on a regular basis.”