THE WILL STARR SOCIETY

In 1978, Jim Gibson, an exiled Scot in Leicester set-up 'THE WILL STARR SOCIETY OF GREAT BRITAIN' as a memorial to Will. As well as honouring Will Starr, the Society's objectives were to promote a wider interest in the accordion and to encourage aspiring young accordion players.

Branches of the Society were established in Dundee, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire, Northants and Corby.
  • Founder Secretary - Jim Gibson, Leicester

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  • Lanarkshire Branch - Alex Kennedy, Larkhall

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  • Ayrshire Branch - John Currie, Kirkoswald


A first memorial concert 'Accordions Galore' for Will Starr was held on 21st October 1979 at the Civic Concert Hall, Motherwell. At this event an accordion competition in his name was inaugurated, with the winner receiving 'THE WILL STARR MEMORIAL SHIELD' and a replica memorial trophy. The 'Will Starr Memorial Trophy' can be seen here. It was hoped that the concert and trophy competition would become an annual event.

Will's sisters accepted the invitation to be Patrons of the Society and attended this first concert, where they presented the Trophy.

Will Starr Society of Great Britain enrolment form
Will Starr Society - Enrolment Form, 1978



Will Starr Society of Great Britain membership card
Will Starr Society - Membership Card, 1978



Will Starr Society of Great Britain membership subscriptions.jpg
Will Starr Society - Member Subscriptions



A Scottish Daily Record Article featuring the Will Starr Society of Great Britain
A Scottish Daily Record Article, 1978
featuring the inauguration of the Will Starr Society of Great Britain

Note:
The Enrolment Form and Membership Card were very kindly contributed by John Currie of Kirkoswald, one of the founding members of the Society.


Read a selection of newspaper cuttings of the event.


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