Following the success of the 1947 tour, it was with great enthusiasm that the band accepted the opportunity for a return visit to Holland on 12th May 1961. The Musician report by Bandsman Harry Cutler gives further details.
A large company of relatives, comrade soldiers and representatives of other corps in the area gathered at Bournemouth Airport on the Friday evening to bid 'God speed' to Boscombe Band when it left for its tour of the Netherlands. The men were delayed for an hour when an engine fault was discovered after they had boarded the plane, but eventually Rotterdam Airport was reached and the unforgettable sight of the city's lights made the delay seem worthwhile.
Greeted by the Field Secretary (Lt. Colonel Philip van Dalen) and Major J.B. Hoevers, the bandsmen proceeded to Hague Congress Hall where, at 11.30pm, Dutch comrades waited to greet them.
The first festival of the tour was given in Scheveningen Prison, following which the visitors united with Hague Congress Hall Band (Dick Kruyt) for an openair meeting and experienced grand fellowship with the men.
In the evening the Boscombe bandsmen were happy to meet former Divisional Commander, now Chief Secretary for the Netherlands, Colonel Frederick Holland, who offered the territory's official welcome. Items included Army of the Brave and Melodies of Schubert and the congregation was quick to show its appreciation of the contributions made by Bandsmen Reg Tubbs (soprano: Maoriland) and Robin Andrews (trombone: Count Your Blessings), and Deputy Bandmaster Maurice Brotheridge (cornet: Happy Day).
Sunday, May 14th : Lt. Colonel Gladpootjes conducted the holiness meeting at Hague Congress Hall and the address was given by the Lt. Colonel Bramwell Mason. In the afternoon the band gave a programme in the 'Doelen Hall' at Delft and the Divisional Commander presided. Returning to the Hague, openair activity was followed by the salvation meeting led by Major Hoevers and addressed by Major Bertram Wells (CO at Boscombe); the day ended triumphantly with five seekers at the Mercy Seat.
