The Oie’ll Verree sevice at the remote Kerrowkeil Chapel, in Ronague, is Rushen Silver Band’s longest standing annual engagement.
Held on the eve of the Feast of Mary, it’s a Manx traditional celebration of Old Christmas Eve that takes place on January 4.
Rushen Silver Band has joined in with the celebrations since 1947, when the band was called Surby Silver Band.
This year, the short service was led by Methodist preacher Bert Quayle.
Rushen Silver Band, with Jim Crebbin holding the baton, played during the service following by a selection of Christmas music.
Jim explained that in the early days when the band attended, members travelled to the chapel by charabanc (small coach).
‘Maurice Duggan, a band member at the time, owned one, and members paid individually to travel to such engagements.
‘The preacher, congregation and any visitors would probably have to walk to the chapel.
‘I can still remember a preacher, a Mr Kermode, who lived at Ballakilpheric, who would set out in the afternoon to get there in time for the start of the service.
‘He would also walk home after the service too, no doubt well fed.’
He added: ‘There is no doubt the chance of having to deal with snow or frost in past years was definitely more likely.
‘On one occasion, the band coach broadsided in snow on Grenaby Bridge on the way to the service.
‘Helped by passengers, the coach was rescued, and even managed to arrive on time!’
The non-competing brass band rehearse on Monday evenings and are always on the lookout for new players.
For more information contact band secretary Peter Faragher at secretary@rushensilverband.org.im, or go along to a rehearsal.