One hundred and eighty!

From time to time old chestnuts reappear: Drum Major Geoff Knox was seen in a photograph carrying out a drill movement which was eventually outlawed in 1956.The associated tall tales surrounding the throwing of Drum Majors' Staffs over main gates and archways have undoubtedly gained reputation and popularity over many, many years. So much so that in a 1977 issue of Blue Band, another renowned ex Drum Major - Colin Bowden- was moved to make the definitive claim. Indeed some of our readers may just remember it. However, here we attempt to lay this ghost once again for the next twenty five years or so. Were Drum Majors' Staffs ever thrown? Clearly yes, once upon a time. When did the practice cease? In 1956 by order of an RMRO. Did anyone ever toss their Staff over an edifice? No, never - apart that is from Colin Bowden in 1963 who, in the presence of Her Majesty and Captain Paul Neville, while on board HMY Britannia entering harbour in Australia on Procedure Alpha, threw his Staff over Sydney Harbour Bridge!

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