FANS of the composer Eric Coates are hoping to establish a dedicatory society to celebrate his work.
A successful concert of the Hucknall natives’ music was performed in December – and this has led to an increased interest in his scores.
He is most famous for composing the distinctive title march from the film score of The Dam Busters.
The project has been set up by Ashfield District Council in partnership with the Hucknall Tourism and Regeneration Group.
And they have invited anyone interested in forming a society to a special meeting at the Watnall Road Community Centre, Hucknall, at 6.30pm on Wednesday 27th Feburary.
The venue coincidentally lies next door to Coates’ birthplace.
Heritage and Tourism Development Officer Denis Hill said: “It is felt by many Hucknall residents that not enough is made of or known about Coates, after all he is probably the most famous of Hucknall’s sons.
“A lot is spoken about Byron and Lovelace but they never actually came to Hucknall, to the best of our knowledge, until after their death, when they were both buried in the Byron family vault.”
The aim of the meeting is to tap up local interest in Coates’ before escalating to a far wider audience.
Interest in the project will be gauged and people will have the opportunity to discuss and formulate ideas.
Coates admirer Ben Sherwood, originally from Hucknall, said: “A society for Coates is long
overdue.
“I look forward to being a part of it when it is created.”
It is envisaged that the society could hold concerts and lectures as well as printing a newsletter, but this would be dependant on the wishes of members.
The council will provide initial financial support for the group but will eventually withdraw so it can run on an independent basis.
Should you require further details in advance of the meeting on the 27th, please contact Denis Hill at Ashfield District Council on 01623 450000 or email: d.g.hill@ashfield-dc.gov.uk
