Nork Residents' Association

Music in Nork Park - 2010

Thanks to the huge generosity of our sponsors and programme advertisers, the Banstead West Music in the Park Committee were able to run an afternoon of music and song in Banstead’s Nork Park, catering for all tastes with a variety of bands and vocalists throughout the afternoon.

A surprise awaited Chris Grayling MP, Minister for Work and Pensions, at Banstead West Music in Nork Park on Sunday, 18 July. Ben Thompson, England's youngest Elvis Tribute artiste, wowed the crowds with his superb impersonation of Elvis Presley and then granted Chris, the event's Patron since its inception, an interview. At only 16 years of age, Ben, who studies at The Beacon School, displayed a talent and maturity that was truly impressive.

Well over 2000 people visited this popular annual music event, which is staged by a group of local residents. Chris has supported the concert and has been its official Patron from the beginning some 12 years ago.

In addition to Elvis, a wide variety of music and song entertained the crowds in perfect warm sunshine, starting with a classic rock group, The Ed Hudson Trio.

Sarah Pullen returned for the fourth year and sang a selection of "songs from the shows", accompanied by most of the audience. Everyone appeared to know all the words and sang along with her.

Colin Roy returned for the second year for a solo spot singing the songs made famous by the Rat Pack. Later in the afternoon he made a guest appearance with the Dave Marrion Big Band who played a selection of music from the Glen Miller era.

The talented and award-winning Beacon School Choir and the Band of the Surrey Yeomanry completed the afternoon's musical entertainment, but there was also plenty to amuse children, from pottery and face painting to the chance to learn circus skills or dress up in pantomime costume, provided by Carshalton Pantomime Company. Banstead History Research Group also brought along their stand, showing the history of Nork House and Nork Park, and several books they have published about the area.

The entire afternoon show, which ran for five hours, was completely free of charge. Costs were covered by sponsors and programme advertising, together with surpluses on the day from the raffle and the tea and beer sales.

By massive public acclaim the event is to be repeated in 2011 on Sunday 17th July. Make a date in your diary now!

For more information or if you would like to volunteer to help, please contact the Committee Chairman, Carol Stead on 01737 210089.