Grimethorpe Colliery Band’s 63rd and final concert of the year at Emmanuel Methodist Church, Barnsley saw the retirement of cornet player David Barraclough after 33 years of unbroken service with the band.

Tributes

The tributes were led by Grimethorpe conductor Sandy Smith who told 4BR: "Barra’s astonishing achievement of service with a single top level band in this day and age knows few, if any equals.

To have graced the stage for so long with a band which has always being one of the busiest in the country is truly remarkable."

He added: "He has been the standard bearer for what being a true bandsman is all about. He was always first at the bandroom and last to leave, but let’s not forget that first and foremost you don’t play for Grimethorpe for 33 years without being a terrific player."

He was always first at the bandroom and last to leave, but let’s not forget that first and foremost you don’t play for Grimethorpe for 33 years without being a terrific playerSandy Smith

Barnsley passion

And after a prolonged standing ovation from both band and audience, the last remaining member of the band who played in the movie 'Brassed Off' was presented with parting gifts, including a season ticket for his other passion Barnsley Football Club.