One of the truly great musicians of the brass banding world is enjoying his 80th birthday today, as Richard Evans — ‘Dick the Stick’ to his friends and fans all over the globe, reaches the landmark occasion by enjoying himself on a special luxury cruise.

Inspiration

Born on the 26th October 1934, he has since become one of the iconic figures of the modern banding movement — backing his formidable CV of contesting success with an unsurpassed reputation as the finest concert entertainer in the business — and an inspiration to countless players young and old.

It was only appropriate then when 4BR caught up with him today, that for once, the ‘King of Entertainment’ was being royally looked after on board the Queen Elizabeth cruise liner moored in Corfu — enjoying a celebratory 14 day trip to some of his favourite destinations.

Beautiful company

“We having a great time,” he said. “The weather’s fantastic wonderful, my company is beautiful and even the Captain has come up and said ‘Happy Birthday’ — although that may be due to the fact that I’m wearing a tee shirt emblazoned with ‘Inside here is an awesome 80 year old’ on it!”

He added: “We are going to enjoy a very special meal this evening and then relax and visit some beautiful places — ending in the city of Venice. You can’t beat that can you now?”

Worldwide messages

Richard has already received countless messages from all corners of the banding globe. “It’s wonderful and humbling to know people think of you in such a way.”

The weather’s fantastic wonderful, my company is beautiful and even the Captain has come up and said ‘Happy Birthday’Richard Evans

Best job

So will he be taking things easy from now on?

“No way. I love what I do and I’m as busy as ever. As soon as this holiday is over its back to doing what I believe is the best job in the world — being involved in brass bands.”

And with that you could hear the chink of a glass of bubbly as yet another fan came up to wish him Happy Birthday.

The man's is truly unique.