Mexborough and Swinton Times August 16, 1919

Mexboro’ Military Band.

The newly formed Military Band in the district reports much progress. The rehearsals are being well attended and much enthusiasm is shown by the members. This is very gratifying to the bandmaster,  Mr H. Bird, who has worked so hard for its success. The completion of the band will, however, require the assistance of one or two reed players and the secretary, Mr. I. Overend, will be pleased to receive the names of any such players.

The band practise on Sundays at the Headquarters of the Mexboro’ “Comrades.”

Mr. Harvey Bird, the conductor of the new’ Mexboro’ Military Band, has been mentioned in dispatches for the excellent work he hast done in the war zone as conductor of the Lincoln Regimental Man.

Mr. Bird comes from a fighting as well as a musical family, having had eight brothers serving with the Forces. Four of these were members of their respective military bands.

Being a reservist at the outbreak of war, Mr. Bird was one of the first men to be called up. He joined his regiment (West Yorkshires), but was immediately transferred to the Brigade, where he helped to form the well-known band at Denham, Camp. Later, they were ordered to Egypt where he received the post of Major and Bandmaster. The band was in constant demand, there being many wounded and sick men to entertain.

He was later transferred to the Gainsborough rifles, and he was made solo euphonium, after joining the Dannemora (Sheffield) Prize Band at solo trombonist.

He came to Mexborough and joined the St John Ambulance Band at Denaby and now been appointed bandmaster of the new Mexborough Military Band.