I HAD a lovely surprise this week, one which made me think that the spirits had definitely aligned.

Chris Evans had encouraged his listeners that it was their duty to always be decent, something I heard as I dragged myself out of bed and into work.

Once there, I tackled the morning’s emails before getting stuck into a new column - now this end result – about the leading lights who have, in the past few years, completely rejuvenated the local live music scene. 

When I was about half-way through, I got a call from reception to say that there were flowers for me downstairs. And lo and behold there was a huge and very beautiful bouquet with a card from a local promoter, on behalf of those whose gigs I have featured in the paper and on The Gazette website.

Someone had definitely done something very decent.

To say that I was shocked is an understatement. The omnipresence of rudeness makes me all the more grateful for those contacts who are polite and understanding, never resorting to sarcasm, negativity or abuse to get their point across.

Thank-yous, especially ones this generous, are rare. Of course, they are not required, as I am only doing my job (well, trying to), but I was so, so touched by this act.

The leading lights of the scene are a gang who couldn’t fail to impress anyone wishing the best for Basingstoke. They are a credit to the town for the work that they do staging events, giving local bands a break, promoting established acts, and bringing new talent to the area.

Founder of Basingstoke music magazine Issuepunkzine Neil Duncan contributes excellent regular gig reviews to The Gazette (asking for nothing in return), whilst passionate local band member and DJ GaryCee runs fantastic podcast The Scene.

Shani Saunders and Loz Lozza promote homegrown talent on the bills of their regular live music nights in Aldershot and Reading, whilst music events at Hayden Gowan’s The Tea Bar are thriving, too. 

Promoters like Shani, Loz, Sam Carter and Jon Rockbitch have worked tirelessly in the past, and continue to do so in the present, to establish and to sustain a sector which is really thriving. And they are some of the most courteous and appreciative contacts I have ever worked with.

Every week sees another raft of events and line-ups and gigs released, more EPs and CDs planned and more fun being had in venues such as Sanctuary, The White Hart and The New Inn. 

Their events may not appeal to your personal musical taste, but the community as a whole can only benefit from the successes of such a motivated band of people.