One of Welsh banding most popular bandsmen and administrators celebrated his 80th birthday in style recently.

Week long

John Bennett undertook a week long birthday celebration, which culminated in a huge Sunday lunch for family and friends.

A past member of the RAF Central Band, John moved to Newtown in Mid Wales as a Police Officer and joined Newtown Silver Band on Eb Bass, before becoming its long serving President.

John and his wonderful wife Helen have dedicated their lives life to brass bands and he has given up many hours to support the movement. Long may it continue!Newtown Silver Band

New generations

He has also been instrumental in ensuring new generations of players enjoy brass banding in the area by becoming the co-ordinator for North Powys Youth Band as well as being a past President of the South East Wales Brass Band Association member of the Welsh Regional Council.

Just a few years ago John retired from being the Welsh representative on the European Brass Band Executive Committee after many years service.

Support

A spokesperson for Newton Band told 4BR: "John and his wonderful wife Helen have dedicated their lives life to brass bands and he has given up many hours to support the movement. Long may it continue!"