Name

Well at 9 years old you tend to aim high! Needless to say sensible reasoning prevailed in that we didn't have a car big enough to take me and my harp to lessons! I lowered my sights, got a cornet and joined the school band. Being fortunate, I had an excellent music teacher who, looking back, showed genuine appreciation for every strained rendition of many a school solo!

Thanks to my grandfather, I was invited to the junior band to see if I liked it. That was my first introduction to Wansbeck's Ashington Colliery Band and 17 years later I can hoenstly say Y"Yes, I love it"!

I was asked to play the Flugel about six years ago and my favorite moment of all has to be stepping onto the stage at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, playing my first competition as Flugel. Sadly this has become a thing of the past. (Sponsors take note)!

My most embarassing moment has to be whilst playing in Germany - feeling very unwell after the hospitality of my hosts and a bottle of Oozo. Need I say anymore!!!

I would refer to the band as my extended family, with an abundance of 'Uncles' and 2nd Dads! That feeling of family has never left, but at least now I'm bigger I can answer back and I now understand the jokes!!!