In 1965, the Church History Books record the following event that took place 40 years ago this month:

10th April 1965
On Saturday 10th April 1965, following the modern trend in Salvation Army evangelism as introduced by the well known “Joystrings”, the Corps Cadet Brigade at Histon launched “The Cresters” guitar group. The group was formed especially to take part in the Corps Cadet Weekend.

Whilst preparing for the weekend, the Corps Cadet Guardian, Mrs Jennifer Wilson, had challenged the corps cadets to arrange something suitable. The result was that ‘The Cresters’ came into being. (Several of the members had been learning to play the guitar already).

The members of the original group consisted of:
Vocals: Mrs J Wilson, Ann Turton and Doreen Wilson (who also played rhythm guitar and was the leader of the group),
Guitars: John Carmichael, Robert Carmichael, Philip Vale, Gwen Hammerton and Susan Turton
Percussion: Peter Vale

The Cresters presented three songs: ‘Whosoever heareth’, ‘It’s an open secret’ and ‘When Jesus comes to you.’ Although there would be some changes in membership, The Cresters would go on to become quite well known in the area.

Thanks to Joan Foster, Church Historian, for supplying this information.