The Virtuosi GUS Band has announced the retirement of stalwart tenor horn player Bob Wallanger.

Bob joined the Midland band as a young man in February 1978, having been recommended by the great Stanley Boddington.

Outstanding

Virtuosi GUS Band Manager Mike Smith told 4BR: "Bob has given over 24 years of outstanding service, returning most recently in 2009 after spells at Bedford and Kibworth.

He epitomised what is often described as a ‘true bandsman’. In over two decades of service, the rehearsals he missed can be counted on the fingers of one hand, whilst he also gave a considerable contribution to us as an organisation as a valued committee member and hard working librarian."

Open win

With numerous top flight championship victories to his name Bob was one of the last remaining members of the band who played on the famous 1988 British Open win under Bramwell Tovey, as well as being crowned BBC Band of the Year and Best of Brass Champion.

Bob will be much missed as a player with Virtuosi GUS. However with many lifelong friendships formed, he remains an integral part of the band in every senseBand Manager Mike Smith

Integral part

Mike Smith added: "Bob will be much missed as a player with Virtuosi GUS. However with many lifelong friendships formed, he remains an integral part of the band in every sense."