David Armitage, one of the most generous philanthropic supporters of brass banding in the UK, has been awarded the OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

Charity

The honour comes in recognition for services to charitable giving in Yorkshire and the UK.

Speaking to 4BR, the man who gave so much support to the Sellers Band organisation said the news had taken him completely by surprise.

"I had just come back from a trip to America and there was a letter from the Cabinet Office on my doormat. I thought it was about something very different so you can imagine my surprise when I opened it."

Humble

After the initial shock wore off David found out that to his delight much of the initial support for his recommendation had come from the brass band movement – and in particular a former player with the Sellers Youth Band.

"I was very humbled to find out that Jamie Smith, who I remember starting out as a six year old on triangle with the youth band, had proposed me for an honour.

That meant more than you can imagine – especially as it had come from a young player who has since blossomed into such a fine musician."

Sellers association

David revealed that it was through his association and support of both Sellers Bands, he was able to do so much for charities throughout Yorkshire and the UK.

"Phillip McCann shared my ethos about how the senior band could put something back into the community and help others. My support for them wasn’t about gaining contest results; it was about doing something good through making music.

Without Phillip’s help and that from Mark Bousie with the Sellers Youth Band, it would not have been possible. I’m very grateful to them both."

Great friend

Phillip himself paid tribute to a person he called ‘a great friend’.

"What David has done for so many charitable causes has been amazing. This honour is long overdue and I can only offer my heartfelt congratulations to man who in our long association became a great friend."

He added: "It’s no exaggeration to say that he has been responsible for raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for so many worthy charities over the years — millions even.

His support of the Sellers Band was wonderful and it was a huge privilege to be able to help support him. I’m absolutely delighted for David and his family – it is so well deserved."

Long overdue

Mark Bousie agreed. "It’s a wonderful, long overdue acknowledgment. His support of the Sellers Youth Band ensured that young players could enjoy music making in a stable, pleasant and friendly organisation.

He was always interested in the band and took great pride in how the young players were developing – knowing their names and speaking to the families.

This is brilliant news for a very special, charitable man."

Hectic

David told 4BR he will receive his OBE in the next few months.

"That will be something to look forward to with my family," he added.

"I must thank everyone for their generous congratulations and kind words. Things have been very hectic since the news came out, so perhaps I will be able to have a glass of something to celebrate with my family later tonight."