One of the nicest awards made at the recent North West Regional Championships in Blackpool was the presentation of deserved 'Long Service' accolades from the North West Brass Bands Association to Robert and Sylvia MacDonald and Malcolm Kerry.

40 and 60 years

All of them belong to the City of Chester Band organisation, with Robert and Sylvia completing over 50 years of banding between them, and with Malcolm notching up a fine 60 years — all of them with many more to come.

New Zealand player

The band's appearance at the contest also saw the next generation of City of Chester stalwarts in place, with one — Sophie Wilson (above), playing her part in the band's success after joining them on her travels from New Zealand.

Sophie comes from a brass band family, with her grandfather playing tuba in a band which performed for New Zealand troops returning from World War II. Back home Sophie, who started playing at the age of 8, plays for the Championship Section Dalewool Band, and during her stay in the UK she is working in the NHS.

Before her visa expires in July, Sophie hopes to pay a visit to Cornwall, but says that she will remain a City of Chester supporter for the rest of her life4BR

Supporter

Before her visa expires in July, Sophie hopes to pay a visit to Cornwall, but says that she will remain a City of Chester supporter for the rest of her life.