Two members of the Whaley Bridge Band were recently presented with Long Service Awards at their recent annual Christmas concert.

100 years

Between them Laurie Walton and Steve Sharpe have clocked up 100 years of brass playing — an achievement recognised by the presentation of prestigious North West Area Brass Band Association Awards.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Laurie (above) joined Whaley Bridge in 1953 and was appointed Principal Cornet by the time he was 12. For the last 60 years no Whaley Bridge Band concert has been complete without Laurie in the ranks.

As well as playing, he has trained and coached young players and has assisted many other local bands as a guest musician."

In addition to a certificate Laurie also received a medal to commemorate his outstanding achievement.

Between them Laurie Walton and Steve Sharpe have clocked up 100 years of brass playing4BR

Balance

Meanwhile, the balance of the 100 years is made up by Steve Sharpe who received an award for 40 years service.

The spokesperson added: "Although a relative newcomer to Whaley Bridge Band, Steve has played with brass bands in the area since 1972, starting, like Laurie, as a back row cornet player and finding his true vocation on soprano cornet four years later."